Attorneys ask questions for a living – lots and lots of questions. There is nothing at all unusual about you asking your own questions before you trust a lawyer with your case. Although this is not a comprehensive list, below we’ve outlined several questions to give you insight into whether a prospective attorney would be a good fit for your needs. Add to or amend this list based on your concerns and constraints. When you make an appointment for a consultation with a family law firm, take this list with you, and record the answers.
- How long have you been practicing law?
- Have you worked on cases similar to mine? What percentage of your practice is family law?
- Are you a member of any bar associations and professional organizations?
- What is your approach in handling family law cases? What specific processes do you use? (For instance, do you prefer to use alternative dispute resolution approaches, like mediation and collaborative divorce, or favor aggressive action, like litigation?)
- What sets your firm apart from competitors?
- How do you typically like to work with and communicate with clients? (i.e. email, regular letters by mail, phone?) What expectations do you have for your clients?
- What’s your fee structure and how does payment work?
- What is your opinion of my case? What kind of resolution can I expect? What potential problems could affect the outcome?
- Will you personally manage my case or will it be handed to another attorney or paralegal?
- How frequently will you provide progress reports?
After You Have Asked Your Questions and Met with Prospective Attorneys
Review the responses you get and assess your opinions of candidate lawyers based on their answers as well as on your interaction from your consultation. Did the law firm staff seem welcoming and competent or bored and overwhelmed? Did you get a “good vibe” from the conversation, or did social friction prevent you from being able to connect? Answers to these questions will help you choose an attorney that is a good fit for your case.
We are here to assist you with your case and help you and your family resolve your family law issues. Call us at (540) 656-2210 to schedule a confidential consultation about your situation.
Matt Kurylo
Latest posts by Matt Kurylo (see all)
- Legal rights of unmarried couples living together in Virginia - January 2, 2024
