Twelve Essential Questions to Ask a Family Law Attorney in the Initial Interview
It can be overwhelming to speak to an attorney for the first time, particularly when you are experiencing a challenging situation like a divorce. Here are some questions you might consider asking in your initial consultation:
- How much do you charge per hour?
- How much of a retainer do you require? How often might I need to replenish it?
- How can we work together to use your time most efficiently and minimize my fees and costs?
- Do you have associates that would be working on my case or will you be doing the work? If you use associates, what kinds of things do they do for you?
- Describe your experience in family law.
- Are you certified as a family law specialist?
- What does it mean to be certified as a family law specialist?
- What are the pros and cons of using different process options for getting divorced? (Such as Collaborative Practice, mediation, and litigation.)
- Describe your experience as a Collaborative Practice attorney.
- How many Collaborative Practice cases have you done in the last year?
- What’s the best way to get a hold of you? (For instance, telephone versus e-mail.)
- How much time should I expect to wait before you respond to a voicemail message or e-mail request?
Bear in mind that, regardless of the answers to these questions, you want to find an attorney with whom you feel you connect. Divorcing can be a long and challenging process, and you want to find the person you trust to help you through it–both because of their competence *and* because you communicate well and like each other.
If you need help finding a Family Law Attorney in San Mateo, please contact us.
By Jessica Lee-Messer, Esq. and Lauren Greenberg Wanderman, Esq.