No one goes in to a marriage expecting it to end, but if you find yourself needing the services of a divorce attorney, it's important that you do everything you can to prepare for what's ahead. The uncertainty that often surrounds a divorce can be a major source of stress and worry unless you're active in getting the answers that will provide you with confidence and calm.
Below, you'll find a guide to some questions you should be sure to ask your family law attorney during a divorce. Having these answers will allow you to develop a solid professional relationship with your lawyer and will help guarantee that you find the best possible solution for securing your future.
Ask About Direct Negotiations
It's natural to want to try to keep costs at a minimum during a divorce, and as such, you may want to look for ways to limit your lawyer's hours. If relations between you and your spouse remain cordial, you may be able to negotiate some aspects of the settlement directly.
Be sure that you ask your lawyer about this process, as he or she will be able to give you extremely valuable advice about both the terms you should be willing to accept as well as things that you should avoid discussing at all. Without at least consulting your attorney, you may inadvertently cause serious damage to your negotiating stance.
Ask About Outside Experts
If you suspect that you're being denied important information or access to relevant financial records, there are professional investigators who may be able to help. Private detectives, forensic accountants, and other sleuths can get to the bottom of a convoluted situation and secure the knowledge that you need.
Ask your lawyer about his or her relationship with these professionals and the situations in which they need to be used. Keep in mind that hiring an outside expert will add on to the fees associated with your divorce, so it's important to balance that with your potential gains.
Ask About A Communication Plan
One of the most common emotions felt during a divorce is frustration. This frustration comes from not only the end of a marriage, but also the pace of a legal system which may, at times, feel absurdly slow. In order to combat that feeling of impatience, talk to your lawyer about scheduling regular meetings and conference calls. This open line of communication will help calm your doubts and make you feel like your attorney is fighting every day to bring your divorce to a successful conclusion.
For professional legal services, contact an attorney such as Susan M Caplin.