For most people who divorce, finding and choosing a divorce solicitor will be a task they conduct once in their lives. Clearly it’s an important task, and choosing the right solicitor will have a direct impact on how the divorce is handled and what the outcome might be.
We have therefore suggested three pointers to consider when choosing your divorce solicitor. We hope they will help you make the right decision for you.
1. Choose a specialist
Some law firms offer services across a broad spectrum of the law. These might include conveyancing, injury law, immigration and corporate law. We would suggest you avoid firms that do not specialise solely in family law. A specialist firm will have the greatest depth of experience for your case and will be equipped to recognise the legal issues that you might face.
2: Choose a good communicator
Some people want their solicitor to be an aggressive fighter, whereas others want softer negotiators. But in reality, the best divorce lawyers are effective communicators.
It might be that if your partner is tough-minded or aggressive and so your divorce solicitor needs to respond to that tone with interest. But it’s more likely that the divorce lawyer will need to persist in getting the facts and figures and where necessary, apply a bit of pressure to the other side, followed by opening up firm but amicable negotiations.
3: Choose a solicitor who understands your situation
It might seem obvious that a solicitor will need to understand your circumstances in order to represent you. But there are levels of understanding. The best divorce lawyers will want to take the time to fully understand your circumstances. A quick run-through of your situation and a rushed decision on a course of action could mean important details will be missed.
Finally, be wary of a ‘free’ first meeting, it is likely to be worth exactly what you paid for it – nothing!