woman seeking a family law attorney

What Should I Look For in a Family Law Attorney?

By David Hammond
Partner

Choosing a family law attorney can be a daunting task when you may already be in the middle of an overwhelming situation. Whether a divorce, child custody issue, or other family law matter, having the right attorney by your side can not only make the difference as to the outcome of your case, but it can also make a huge difference as to how you handle the entire process. Here are some tips on what to look for when you are selecting a family law attorney.

What to Look For in a Family Law Attorney

One of the most important things you need to consider when selecting a family law attorney is whether or not you think you can have a positive, trusting relationship with him or her. Trust is essential, especially in family law matters. You will have to disclose some very personal details to your attorney. It may be sensitive, or even embarrassing information you need to disclose, but your attorney must be privy to the whole story to most effectively represent you. Find an attorney that you trust and with whom you feel as comfortable as you can talking about personal details relevant to your case.

Find a lawyer that you find the ease of communication with. Your personality needs to be compatible with your attorney for the working relationship you are looking to form. You should also feel confident that your attorney cares about your case and has listened to your goals and needs. While you want an attorney who will move your case forward and see it through to its conclusion, you do not want to feel rushed. Family law often involves major life changes. A quick case resolution is often desired, but a quick, efficient resolution is different from a rushed resolution.

There are also the logistics of representation that you will want to be clear on when looking for a family law attorney. For instance, will the attorney’s fees work within your budget? Being upfront and talking about money is important. While you want your case to be successful, you do not want to empty your bank account in the process. If you are usually uncomfortable talking about money, don’t be here. Attorneys are used to discussing fees and costs with clients and potential clients. In fact, the right attorney will appreciate you wanting to engage in a frank discussion about fees so that you can budget accordingly.  

Last, but not least, you want to look for a family law attorney with extensive experience in practicing family law. Family law has its own unique procedures and complexities which make it preferable to have an attorney skilled in navigating these legal waters in particular. Ask a potential attorney about his or her experience in family law. Has he or she handled cases similar to yours? The attorney should be able to answer your family law questions in a direct way that you can understand.

Family Law Attorneys

At CDH Law, our team of dedicated family law attorneys remains committed to serving the best interests of our clients. Contact us today.

About the Author
David is a former military prosecutor and defense lawyer with over a decade of experience fighting for service members and their families. He served nine years and two combat tours as an active duty US Army officer, then joined the Reserves and settled down in Syracuse to be near family. Now representing people across Central New York charged with serious felonies, misdemeanors, DWIs, and traffic offenses, he puts the same level of commitment into his civilian law practice. If you have any questions regarding this article, you can contact David here.