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Questions to Ask in Your First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney

If you are facing a divorce, you no doubt have multiple questions about how to find the right divorce attorney for you, but you may not know where to turn for answers. The first order of business is finding a divorce attorney with whom you are comfortable working and sharing very personal information regarding your marriage, including your finances. The right attorney can not only help make the divorce process more manageable but can also help ensure that you obtain divorce terms that support you and your children’s best interests. Asking the following questions in your first meeting with a divorce attorney can help you make the right decision for you. 

Do You Focus on Divorce and Family Law?

You’re going through a divorce, and you need an attorney in your corner who knows his or her way around divorce cases. You’re not looking for an attorney who dabbles in divorce. Ask questions about the attorney’s credentials, and if your case involves a complicating factor, such as high assets or business ownership, make sure the attorney in question is well versed at successfully tackling the matter at hand. 

How Would You Strategize My Case, and How Long Will My Divorce Take?

If the attorney you’re considering gives you an exact answer regarding how long your divorce will take, it should give you pause. Your divorce is unique to your situation, and unforeseen complications can arise along the way. The attorney should, however, be able to provide you with a well-considered estimate regarding how long your divorce is likely to take. Further, listen carefully to the attorney’s general strategy regarding your divorce. If you have questions, ask them. If the attorney doesn’t seem willing to compromise on strategy or to make concessions regarding your concerns, it’s probably a good idea to keep looking.

How Accessible Are You?

There are a variety of questions you should ask prospective attorneys regarding their accessibility moving forward, including:

  • Will I be able to reach you on the phone?
  • Will I be working solely with you and one or two key support professionals? 
  • Will I be able to reach you in the event of an emergency, and what constitutes an emergency?
  • What kind of turnaround time (regarding discovery and other elements of divorce) can I expect moving forward?

You’re looking for an attorney with whom you feel comfortable collaborating in a timely fashion – and not an attorney whom you’ll work with only intermittently. 

How Will I be Charged?

Legal fees can add up quickly, and it’s important to know what your retainer fee will be upfront and what you’ll be paying per hour of service. Additionally, it’s important to know if you will be charged – and the amount – when you meet with or consult with other attorneys, paralegals, and/or secretaries in the firm. 

Find the Right Virginia Beach Attorney for You

At Mahoney Richmond Thurston, PLLC, in Virginia Beach, we understand how important it is to find an experienced divorce attorney who is a good fit for you, and we’re committed to helping you do just that. Our trusted divorce attorneys are on your side, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information today.