So you’ve made the decision to divorce. But have you decided on how to divorce? Besides making the difficult decision to divorce, the second most important decision you will make is on the divorce lawyer you choose to represent you.
Because the outcome of your divorce will change your life, you should invest the time to find the lawyer who will do the best possible job for you by interviewing several attorneys before making a final decision. Remember that it is up to you to find the right divorce lawyer to represent you — one that is not only good at what they do, but who is compatible with your outlook and personality. So take your time and follow these tips to find someone who:
- Is licensed to practice family law in New Jersey.
- Has experience with and can recommend other professionals to assist with your case, like forensic accountants, financial consultants, etc.
- Has handled a lot of New Jersey divorce cases and has an excellent knowledge of divorce law.
- Is skilled at negotiating, so it may be possible to settle your divorce without a costly court fight.
- Is someone you are comfortable with sharing the intimate details of your life with, as your attorney must know all the pertinent facts of your married life to do the best possible job for you.
- Is practical and will advise you if a settlement offer is fair instead of encouraging you to prolong the case in order to satisfy a need for revenge.
- Is candid about what the divorce will cost you, will identify any problem areas he or she sees with your case, and can share with you how your case is likely to resolve based on their years of experience.
- Is dedicated solely to protecting your best interests. It’s not a good idea to share a divorce lawyer with your soon-to-be ex. Nor should you hire a friend.
There are unique issues in every divorce, so you should look for a divorce lawyer who has experience in the specific issues that may come up in your divorce. For example:
Custody issues. If there will be a big fight over custody, make sure your attorney has a focus on child custody issues.
Business ownership. If you and/or your ex own a business, it’s important to have a divorce lawyer with business knowledge and who has resources like business valuation experts and forensic accountants.
Complex assets. If your divorce involves the division of complex assets like an art collection, jewelry, multiple properties and/or real estate in other states or countries, look for a lawyer with experience in high net worth divorces.
When you are faced with an important life decision regarding a key family relationship, the advice and assistance of an experienced family law attorney often proves crucial to your understanding of the issues involved and your satisfaction with the ultimate outcome of your family law matter. Contact us today for your free consultation.