How To Choose A Family Law Attorney

Does the Attorney Have the Skill & Expertise You Need?
You should be confident that your attorney has a high degree of skill and experience in the area of family law pertaining to your case. You have a right to expect your attorney to manage the case and resolve the legal issues with a minimum of rancor. It requires skill to douse fires of conflict rather than further ignite them, and this skill should be used whenever possible in the attorney's case management. Doing so will reduce your legal fees and minimize the stress inherent in many domestic relations cases.

How Will the Attorney Manage Your Case?
You should employ an attorney who is willing to think creatively about options and solutions. If not, when disagreements arise, they could lead to unnecessary conflict, protracted arguments and even litigation. Before beginning a case, ask how your attorney intends to manage the issues and the process. It is important to have legal counsel who will think outside the box in designing a solution for you, rather than resorting to a one size fits all, contentious negotiating strategy.

Does the Attorney Understand Your Goals?
You should expect your attorney to understand and be in accord with your needs and underlying interests, as well as to make all reasonable efforts to meet your goals. And, while your attorney may be advising you and offering opinions on the best choices, this does not mean the attorney is ultimately in charge. It is your case! When you have been given all the relevant information and possible options, it is your right to make the important decisions. The attorney is at your service and beholden to you, not the other way around.

Can You Rely on the Attorney?
You should be able to count on your attorney's honesty, integrity and reliability. These qualities not only mean that your attorney is credible with you, but also credible with opposing attorneys and the judge assigned to the case. You should know if your attorney has the respect of his colleagues and the Pima County Family Court (cap) Judges. Your attorney should be willing to answer any questions you may have about their law practice. This may include providing you with the names of previous clients or other attorneys as references.