Is the Outcome of Your Divorce Dependent on Your Lawyer?

 Posted on January 07, 2025 in Divorce

Divorce and other family legal issues can be extremely stressful and are often highly emotional as well. Some people facing divorce or another family law matter may wonder whether they can handle the matter on their own without an attorney. In virtually every situation, the lack of a family law attorney can prevent your best interests from being represented in court and hinder your ability to make informed decisions.

A Money Magazine article reported that those who have an experienced divorce lawyer secured an average of 50 percent more in financial settlements than those who chose DIY. There are many factors associated with choosing the best divorce attorney for you. Choosing an Aurora, IL family law attorney does not have to be an agonizing process. Below are some tips to help you choose a lawyer who truly cares about the outcome of your divorce.

Choosing a Family Law Attorney Who Can Guide the Outcome of Your Divorce

There are many issues related to divorce. Couples must divide marital assets according to the rule of equitable division and determine whether spousal maintenance is appropriate – and, if so, what the amount and duration will be. Then there are the often-contentious custody issues, including allocating parental responsibilities, parenting time, and determining child support. A highly experienced divorce lawyer can have a significant impact on all these issues. But how do you choose the best attorney for you and your situation?

Where to Start?

Many people start the process of choosing a divorce attorney by requesting a referral from friends, family members, or co-workers. If that route is unsuccessful, many will turn to the Internet and browse the websites of family law attorneys in their area. Choosing several attorneys who look promising and then making appointments with each of them is the next step. While it can be tempting to just pick one without a face-to-face meeting – simply to have the matter done – you really need to see how each attorney relates to you personally.  

Determine the Experience of Each Attorney You Speak To

Family law is a broad, often complex area of the law. Your divorce is unique – perhaps you know it will be high-conflict, you have complicated assets, you think your spouse is hiding assets, or you believe the custody portion of the divorce will be especially difficult. Whatever your issue, you need an attorney who has significant experience handling similar situations. Check out client reviews and overall reputation in the community. Ask each attorney how they will handle a specific issue relating to your divorce.  

Availability and Communication Are Crucial

Having a divorce attorney you feel comfortable with is critical since you will share personal details of your life and marriage. Ask each attorney whether you will deal directly with him or her when you have questions or a meeting or if you will be "handed off" to a paralegal or other staff member. Ask how long it generally takes for the attorney to respond to a phone call, an email, or a text message. The last thing you need is to be constantly left wondering what is happening in your own life.

Do Not Be Embarrassed to Discuss Fee Structure

It can be uncomfortable to discuss costs with an attorney, but it is important that you fully understand how each attorney bills for his or her services, including hourly rates, retainer fees, and other potential costs. While an attorney may not be able to give you an absolute rate, he or she should be able to provide a good estimate.

Contact a Kane County, IL Divorce Lawyer

The outcome of your divorce is definitely tied to your divorce attorney. You need look no further than The Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C. for an experienced, skilled, empathetic divorce lawyer. Choosing a knowledgeable Batavia, IL divorce attorney who provides legal representation tailored to your unique situation is essential. We focus on mediation and collaborative law and will work closely with you to ensure we understand your goals. Call 630-409-8184 to schedule an initial attorney meeting.