Choosing an attorney for divorce or mediation
By Cinda Jones on September 28, 2010
Very often when one or both parties are considering divorce, they will immediately select an attorney and sign a retainer agreement. The initial fear and desire to “get it over” can set in motion a process that can be very costly to the emotional and financial well-being of the couple and their family.
In most cases it’s good to stop for a moment and consider that even in legal matters you are the consumer. As in any major purchase, it’s important to understand yourself, your spouse, what you need, and what will make sense for you in the long run. You wouldn’t buy a $20,000 car without checking out the features and benefits. Many divorces cost that and more.
At the beginning it’s critical to self-assess as much as possible and then go on a fact finding mission.
What are some of the self-assessment questions? You might start by asking three questions. Are you and your spouse able to communicate with civility? Do you have minor children? How large or how complicated is your marital estate?
You shouldn’t assume that the attorney who did a great job for your friend or family member will be the right person for you. It’s a good idea to interview two or three attorneys. They will probably charge you an hourly consult fee. With each consult you will learn something new; you will be asked questions you hadn’t thought of; and you will learn how attorneys can approach differently what appears to be the very same matter.
You can also ask other professionals such as a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst or a Divorce Coach to help you evaluate process choices and gather financial information so you are prepared to make the most of your consults with attorneys. CDFAs and Divorce Coaches in your area can give you 2-3 attorney names to consider.
Article written by Cinda Jones, CFP, CDFA of DivorceFinancialSolutions and with the assistance of Lynne Verdone, CDFA; Kathleen Fauklner, CDFA, and Susan Campbell, CDFA.
Tags: attorney, divorce, Family law, finance, mediation
Categories: News
