When facing a divorce, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Here are four key factors to consider when selecting a family law attorney to guide you through the divorce process.
1. Choose a Family Law Specialist
First and foremost, hire someone who specializes in family law, not just any attorney who takes on a variety of types of cases. A specialist in family law has deeper understanding of the complexities of divorce, including settlements, custody arrangements, and what are reasonable or unreasonable positions. This expertise is invaluable in helping you to work through the legal landscape effectively.
2. Find an Attorney that You Are Comfortable With
Your attorney doesn’t have to be your best friend, but you should feel comfortable speaking openly with them. Divorce cases can last anywhere from a few months to several years, so you will spend a significant amount of time communicating with your lawyer. It is important to find someone you can trust and feel at ease with, as this will help them to better represent and advocate for you throughout the divorce process.
3. Consider the Size of the Law Firm
There are benefits to working with either solo practitioners or larger law firms. But it is important to understand who will actually be handling your case. When you meet with an attorney, ask if they will be your primary point of contact or if your case will be passed on to associates within the firm. This can impact not only the level of personalized attention you receive but also the overall cost. Larger firms have higher fees, because of multiple attorneys working on your case instead of the attorney that you thought you were hiring. So, if budget is a concern, this is something to consider.
4. Interview Multiple Attorneys
You should consult with more than one attorney before making your decision on who to hire. Different lawyers have different strategies and perspectives on how to handle your case. By meeting with a few attorneys, you can compare their approach, get a sense of their expertise, and see who aligns best with your goals and values. This process also allows you to determine who you feel most confident entrusting with your hard-earned money.
Take the time to ask questions, understand proposed strategies, and evaluate how well they listen to your concerns. The right attorney for you is someone who not only has legal expertise but also understands your priorities and is committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
Choosing a divorce attorney is a decision that will impact the course and outcome of your case. By selecting a specialist in family law, someone that you feel comfortable with, and consulting with multiple attorneys, you will be better equipped to find the right legal partner to guide you through your divorce.
For more information or to schedule a consultation call 732.865.6653. Our office is located at
1516 Highway 138, Unit 1B, Wall, New Jersey 07719.
My passion for family law stems from when I was a law clerk to the Honorable Teresa A. Kondrup Coyle, the most experienced family law judge presently sitting on the bench in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Monmouth County. During my tenure with Judge Coyle I read through and analyzed hundreds of lawsuits between divorced couples. I watched the stress and trauma caused by trials and litigation. I saw what worked, what didn’t, and developed an unmatched understanding of how cases are decided by judges in Court.
I continue to hone my knowledge of my practice areas through memberships in several professional organizations, including the New Jersey State Bar Association, the Ocean-Monmouth Family Law American Inns of Court, Monmouth Bar Association, the New Jersey Association of Professional Mediators, and more. In addition to being a licensed New Jersey attorney, I have received Certification from the New Jersey Association of Professional Mediators’ 40-hour divorce mediation program.
Armed with both practical family law experience and specialized knowledge, I’m confident that I can help you and your loved ones resolve your family law issue. I realize that these sensitive matters require exploring all your options and carefully selecting a legal professional whom you can trust to move your case forward with compassion and diligence.