Divorce can be totally unexpected or carefully considered, but either way, it’s a stressful time. Although some upheaval is inevitable, you should do everything you can to keep your divorce under control. This includes your expenses, your divorce timeline, and the outcomes you hope to achieve.
One of the best ways to stay in control of the divorce process is by hiring an attorney that suits your unique needs. Your attorney will be the one to facilitate mediation, explain your options, and hopefully help you get what you want out of your divorce.
If you’re facing a divorce in Edina and want some tips about how to find the best lawyer for your case, you’re in luck. In this post, I’ll share some of the most helpful steps to follow when you’re looking for a new divorce attorney.
Meet with several lawyers
Don’t stop at the first lawyer you find after a quick Google search – you should be putting in some serious research to find the best divorce lawyer in Edina for you. The attorney you ultimately choose can be the difference between getting everything you want out of your divorce and having to settle.
Meet with a few attorneys and get a feel for who knows their stuff, who seems easy to work with, and which lawyers you might not gel with. This process is especially important if it’s your first time going through a divorce. You may not have any preconceived notions of what you want from your lawyer, so comparing different styles and personalities will allow you to find the best attorney.
Know the specifics of your case
Before you choose an attorney, it’s best to know exactly what you’re seeking. You should have a grasp on what you hope to get out of your divorce, from finances to child custody. When you start the process of finding the best divorce lawyer, be prepared to share any unique or complicated aspects of your marriage that may apply to your divorce.
It’s also vital that you have access to your financial documents prior to your divorce; that way, you can inform potential attorneys of any issues you anticipate. This includes both pre-marital and marital assets/debts. If you are a physician, business owner, or executive, you will likely need additional financial information to protect your business interests.
Keep it local: Use a Divorce Lawyer in Edina
The best way to ensure your attorney knows the laws in your area is by finding a local firm. Each jurisdiction can be different, so a local attorney will be the key to your success if you anticipate heading to court for your divorce.
You can expect to meet with your attorney many times before your divorce is finalized, which can mean driving to their office during peak traffic times. Decrease your time spent in the car by choosing a local family law attorney in Edina.
Investigate potential attorneys’ focus areas
While all family law attorneys may have the schooling necessary to represent you during your divorce, it doesn’t mean their real-world experience and professional interests align with the details of your case. Some divorce attorneys focus on high-asset divorce, while others may be well-versed in complex child support and spousal maintenance issues. Ask potential attorneys how their combined education and experience can benefit you during your case.
Make sure you feel heard
The best divorce attorney will go out of his or her way to make sure you feel supported and understood. During your initial conversations with a potential attorney, take note of whether you feel respected and heard. Your attorney should make it their job to know what you want out of the divorce and offer several approaches that can help you achieve your goals.
I know finding the perfect attorney can seem daunting, but I hope the tips I’ve outlined will make the process easier for you. If you’re looking for a starting point in your search for a divorce law lawyer Edina, please feel free to contact me for a consultation.