Finding the right divorce lawyer is a key step toward creating optimal conditions for a faster, less-expensive divorce, compared to a lengthy, drawn-out emotional and financial nightmare. But what is “right” for you and your situation and how do you avoid some of the common missteps we see in our family law practice? Our FPS legal team offers the advice we share with those who are in the process of choosing a family law attorney:
Melissa Harman, CFLS
“This process is a very personal and emotional time in your life. It is important to find an attorney who can appreciate your feelings while guiding you through the legal process. Because this is often a new and confusing experience for you, it is important that you have an attorney you can communicate with so that you feel heard and so that you understand what is going on in your case. You should always be able to ask questions and get honest answers from your attorney without feeling like you are being judged or silenced.”
Matthew purcell, cFLS
“You want to find an attorney who you can respect. There are many situations where your attorney will advise you to do something — or not to do something — and you may not want to listen. If you respect your attorney’s experience, communication, and understanding of what is important to your case, you are more likely to actually follow your attorney’s advice. If you don’t respect your attorney or follow their legal advice, then you are really just wasting your time and money.”
Michelle stowell, CFLS
“Going through a divorce is a difficult and emotional process. In addition to picking an attorney who is knowledgeable about family law, it is equally important that you choose an attorney with whom you are comfortable discussing personal issues as well as mesh with on an emotional level. Without this compatibility, the difficulties of a divorce will be compounded as you won’t feel heard or understood by the person who is there to help.”
