Things To Consider Before Hiring A Divorce Lawyer

Published on: 15 March 2019 Last Updated on: 13 September 2024
Divorce Lawyer

Going through a divorce is already traumatic. Hiring a divorce lawyer shouldn’t be. You already have so much to think about. If you have children and combined assets, the process of divorce would become even more tangled. If your lawyer is good, you can avoid a long tussle and solve things fast so you can put the disturbing past behind you and move on.

Hiring a lawyer is a very important task. Your future is at stake here. Your emotional and financial health is in your lawyer’s hands. The longer you have been in the marriage the more tangled the case becomes. If you have debts, dividing these could be tricky. There would be a lot of clauses that need to be looked into to divide these debts and assets.

If you’re going through the divorce with a lawyer, chances are that your partner has a lawyer too. Since law proceedings can go any way, it is extremely important that you choose a lawyer that can help you get your fair share of the years and life that you built together with your partner.

We can understand that the entire situation must be really overwhelming for you so we’ve put together a list of the top factors that you need to consider while hiring a lawyer.

Things To Consider Before Hiring A Divorce Lawyer:

Attorney’s experience:

Attorney’s experience

It goes without saying that your attorney must have experience with divorce proceedings. Law is a tricky boat to steer and unless your lawyer has some experience he would not be aware of the obstacles he needs to steer past. Now even while looking for a lawyer, check their credentials and certifications. You could personally check up with these some of the people they’ve worked with in the past. It would give you a fair idea of how the lawyer works. The biggest thing that you’d find out is their credibility. It is important that you go through many of their previous clients to make an informed decision. Fred Coover of Coover Law advises considering the experience and local reputation of a divorce lawyer before hiring them. Any big decision needs groundwork. Put in some time and effort to browse through the lawyer directory in your area and sift through their cases. Everything is available online, so you could do this any time.

Lawyers generally have multiple cases in different branches that they work in their careers. Choose a lawyer that has experience in specifically divorce cases. This would tell you that they know their way around divorce proceedings.

Background check:

After checking their experience, check up on the lawyer’s background and how credible they are. If they have a reputation of unscrupulous methods of filing and fighting cases, you may want to steer clear. You don’t want to be stuck with a lawyer who doesn’t do things ethically because this could put your case in jeopardy as well. Divorce proceedings should be a one-time thing. You don’t want to go through the mental trauma again. If your lawyer employs unscrupulous methods, the case could be open again and you may have to compensate more than you received in the divorce hearing.

Contact the local bar council and find out about the lawyer you’re thinking of hiring. They would be in the best position to advise you and give you information about the lawyer you’re seeking.

Communication:

Since filing cases is all about communication, when you meet the lawyer, you must be able to communicate with them effectively. Everyone’s way of communication is different and you must find one for yourself with whom you can communicate. If you feel like the lawyer isn’t true to what they say, move on to the next. Most lawyers who have been in practice for a long time have a fixed way of working and you shouldn’t have problems. In case you do, move on to find another attorney. They must be available for you via calls, emails or be open to meeting in person in their work hours. This shows that the lawyer is committed to your case.

As Jim Parke from leading Melbourne law firm tells us, “Divorce is a very emotional and stressful time for the parties involved. It’s important to hire a lawyer who is sympathetic and understanding but also acts swiftly so things can be done in a timely manner”. The last thing you want is a drawn-out process which makes the event even harder to deal with. His legal practice ensures divorce proceedings are taken care of quickly.

Fees of the attorney:

lawyers charge

While hiring a lawyer, inquire about their fees. Some lawyers charge by the hour and some for consultation. The normal rate that most experienced divorce lawyers charge is anywhere between $100 to $200 for consultation.

Clear the paperwork and discuss the mode of payment clearly with them. Are the payments properly invoiced? Will any fees be refunded if you don’t employ their services. Lawyers charge a retainer fee which is an upfront fee. Check with the lawyer if this fees will be refunded in case you decide to terminate the contract midway. Ensure that the contract mentions all these terms clearly before signing.

Read Also:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

Bail Bonds

Bail Bonds: What You Should Know

Paying bail bonds are not as simple as it seems. Knowing and having the right understanding of how these work, how it is determined, what the payment methods are, and other important issues are very important for anybody who is facing an arrest or who has an arrested loved one. There are several questions asked online to shed light and find out what bail bonds are all about which you may also have, click here to find out the answers. What is Bail? It is a term to describe the release of a person arrested for a criminal offense before the end of the criminal case. It can involve - but not every time - the defendant paying money to a court; this is not a punishment. It ensures the court that the defendant returns to the court now and then while the case is ongoing. It ensures the court that the defendant does not fail to go to court without having to keep him in custody all the time. Bails are significant in both ends – the arrested and the authorities. It ensures that people, no matter if they have a case at court, are free and, also, it avoids having to jam-pack jails with offenders, while have not been convicted yet. With it, offenders can be released almost in any stage of the criminal justice process, either immediately after arrest or while the case is ongoing and the court has not issued a sentence yet. This means that if someone gets arrested, three possible scenarios can come to place: he is arrested and released without charge; he is arrested, charged, and released on bail; or he is arrested, charged and is held in custody until the verdict of the case comes out. Schedule of Bails This is a list of the amount of money applied to individual crimes and can be paid in terms of bails. State laws determine the amount appropriated for a crime, and they decide whether the arrested individual be released without posting any bond at all or if the individual is allowed to post any or not; or if allowed to post bail, should it be posted (and individual is released with it) after booking or should they wait for a hearing. If the state laws allow for immediate release after the appropriate amount is paid, the defendant can post this immediately and release will follow. But if the state law requires a hearing, the defendant will not be able to pay immediately after booking and be released, instead, he will have to wait for the hearing to ensure before anything else. Hearings During a hearing, the court would determine the amount applicably. However, courts do not always allow this; they can also deny it according to applicable state laws. If allowed, the amount will be determined using the following factors as a basis: Flight Risk Level: Sometimes defendants would escape the system especially when they are facing possible major sentences such as death or life imprisonment. These defendants are most likely to flee and escape the penalties. Degree of Connections to the Community: An individual who has a strong connection to the community where he belongs would be less likely to flee. For example, a defendant who has a business in his locality or whose entire family is in that locality, he will have a lesser likelihood of fleeing compared to individuals who have nothing to lose in that locality. Obligations in the Family: Sometimes the court will consider and require lesser bail to defendants who are responsible for the well-being of his family or who have other dependents. Assets and Incomes: When a defendant has a lot of money and/or assets, he may likely not be considered for a low amount. If the defendant is employed, the court may consider that the defendant may likely lose the employment. Court and Criminal Histories of Defendants: Especially individuals who have had histories involving failures to appear in court will most likely have to face higher bonds compared to those who are first-timers in court. Also, the court would look into the number of times a person may have been granted bail and have violated conditions related to the given considerations or who have failed to appear in court. The court will most likely impose higher bond amounts to these individuals as compared to someone without such history. The gravity of the Crime: More serious crimes require higher bonds and lesser serious crimes require lower bond amounts. Public Safety: If the release of an accused individual would pose a risk to the safety of others and/or the community, the courts would most likely refuse to allow bail. Examples for these are cases of treason, rebellion, terrorism, or conspiracy - a defendant charged with these crimes would most likely not be allowed to post bail. The Types of Bail Bonds Most of the time bail bonds are associated with money. The notion is that when one is arrested and he has the money, he can get out of jail immediately. However, it is more complicated than that. There are several questions asked online to shed light and know what bail bonds are all about which you may also have. Different states may have different types of bails, some may apply to another and in others, it may not. The different types may include cash bonds, signature bonds, property bonds, surety bonds, and others. Read Also: Under What Circumstances Can You Bring a Claim Against an Employer? Do I Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident that wasn't My Fault?

READ MOREDetails
Australia's legal system

Understanding Legal Services In Australia: A Detailed Overview

Legal services encompass an expansive array of activities requiring the application of legal knowledge and skills. From dispute resolution to helping individuals, businesses, and organizations understand their rights and responsibilities under the law, these services play a crucial role in society. This comprehensive article sheds light on Australia's legal services industry while providing an informative breakdown for anyone attempting to understand its complex system. The Structure Of The Legal System In Australia Australia's legal system draws upon English common law traditions while uniquely tailored to Australia's history and socio-cultural environment. At its core lies a commitment to the rule of law principles such as separation of powers and justice, equality, and fairness as outlined by international agreements and customs. Federal Structure Australia operates under a federal system, meaning laws may come from the Federal or Commonwealth Government and individual state legislatures (New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia) and two territories (Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory). Each jurisdiction may have different laws and court services, which make for an intricate web of legal systems in Australia. Court Hierarchy Court hierarchies are essential in the operation of Australia's legal system. At its apex is the High Court of Australia as the supreme judicial authority; below it are federal and state/territory Supreme Courts, District/County Courts and Magistrates'/Local Courts, each with specific roles to fulfil in administering justice. Types Of Legal Services In Australia Legal services in Australia span many areas of law. Individual professionals specialise in specific aspects, offering their clients tailored advice and representation services. Criminal Law Services Criminal law addresses conduct that is perceived to be harmful to society. It determines what crimes exist and their respective penalties; legal services offered in this field may include representation in court proceedings, plea negotiation services, bail applications and appeals procedures, and advice regarding charges and their potential outcomes. Civil Law Services Civil law encompasses several fields, such as contracts, property transactions, family law matters, probate proceedings and tort law. Services provided under civil law include drafting and reviewing contracts, mediating disputes and providing advice regarding estate planning or real estate deals, divorce proceedings or even personal injury claims. Commercial And Corporate Law Services Commercial and corporate law services involve laws regulating businesses and commercial transactions. These services include advice regarding business structure and governance, employment law, intellectual property law, mergers and acquisitions, compliance with regulations and dispute resolution. The Role Of Legal Practitioners Lawyers (legal practitioners) are at the core of providing legal services. Australia's legal profession includes solicitors and barristers, each with unique roles and responsibilities. Solicitors Solicitors often work directly with clients. They offer advice, draft documents, negotiate with third parties and can represent clients in court proceedings. Solicitors work in various settings, including private practice, government departments and community legal centres. Barristers Barristers are specialists in court advocacy and litigation. Their role involves: Representing clients in court. Providing expert legal opinions. Advising solicitors and their clients on the direction of their cases. Barristers typically work independently, hired by solicitors to act on behalf of their clients. Access To Legal Services In Australia Access to legal services is essential for creating an equitable society. Australia has put in place various measures to ensure everyone can access legal advice and representation regardless of their financial means. Legal Aid Legal Aid commissions in each state and territory provide free or low-cost legal services to eligible individuals who cannot afford legal representation, particularly in family law, criminal law and civil law issues. They assist with matters such as family law proceedings, criminal law proceedings and civil law litigation proceedings. Community Legal Centres Community Legal Centres (CLCs) are independent non-profit organisations offering free legal services to those facing economic and social disadvantage. CLCs typically specialise in specific areas such as housing, immigration, social security and domestic violence law. Regulatory Environment Of Legal Services Australia's legal services industry is subject to stringent regulation to uphold high standards of professionalism, ethical conduct and competency among practitioners. Legal Profession Acts And Regulatory Bodies Each state and territory has a Legal Profession Act outlining the rules for practising law within their jurisdiction. Regulatory bodies for solicitors (law societies) and bar associations for barristers (bar associations) ensure adherence to these rules by offering guidance, professional development opportunities and disciplinary functions for compliance. Uniform Law Framework Some jurisdictions have enacted the Legal Profession Uniform Law (LPUL) to standardise legal services across state borders and to establish consistent rules for legal practitioners - creating an integrated and accessible legal market. Conclusion Understanding legal services in Australia requires an appreciation of its diverse legal system, its various areas of law covered, the roles played by legal practitioners and the mechanisms for providing access to these services. As this system continues to adapt to meet the changing needs of Australian society and global legal environments, understanding its legal services is integral for confidently and accurately navigating Australia's legal landscape. Click this website for more information. Read Also: How to Avoid a Toxic Divorce How To Market Your Personal Injury Law Firm On Pinterest How Legal Services Outsourcing Aids Law Firms and Legal Departments

READ MOREDetails
Reasons to File a Hernia Mesh Lawsuit

How Do I Know If I Have A Valid Hernia Mesh Case?

Medical lawsuits are particularly hard to win since they need a lot of time to settle. Hernia mesh lawsuits are one of the most common lawsuits in court.  Yes, it is shocking, but it is quite common. An expert attorney can build a fairly air-tight case against the company or the doctor with the right evidence. If you are a patient looking for reasons for a reason for this hernia mesh lawsuit, the following points might convince you to do so: 1. Health Issues The reason you went for a hernia mesh procedure was to cure your medical issue. Therefore, if it deteriorates your health further, then it is enough reason for a lawsuit. Complications arising from hernia mesh are more common than you think. For example, if there is a lack of proper attention, they can compromise your health. Usually, when mesh malfunctions, it causes infection and damage to other organs which can be serious for the patient. If there is no medical attention on time, it can cause life-threatening internal injuries. This factor alone should be enough to file a lawsuit. 2. Monetary Losses The primary purpose of any lawsuit is to look for fair compensation for all the plaintiff’s losses. Hernia mesh lawsuits are no different; the main reason behind filing this lawsuit is to receive financial compensation for the aggrieved party. These losses can be related to diminishing income, medical and pharmaceutical expenses, transportation charges, and any other cost related to it. Since the cure will add to the expense of the surgery, filing a claim to recover these expenses becomes a very valid reason to file a hernia mesh lawsuit. 3. Manufacturing Fault Believe it or not; despite being approved by the FDA, many hernias mesh fails because of a manufacturing fault. These the patient either doesn't know about these faults or are many doctors and company completely ignore it. Such negligence in a medical procedure can result in serious future injuries or loss of life. If you have suffered physical and emotional pain due to this oversight, you can file a lawsuit. Contact your attorney, and he/she will do the rest. 4. Physicians Fault Meshes don’t fail exclusively due to a manufacturing fault; sometimes, it’s the doctor who is to be blamed. A negligent doctor might put it in the wrong position or not stitch the wound properly. As you can imagine, it is a recipe for future disasters. If you realize that all your suffering is because of your doctor, then filing a lawsuit is important. You can analyze this by analyzing the doctor’s history or studying more about the mesh manufacturer. If the manufacturer's hernia mesh has a high success rate, your doctor might be at fault. 5. Labeling Error Mesh manufacturers know of all the complications that can occur when using their products. However, if they fail to mention them on their labels and packing, it can be a very good reason to file a lawsuit against them. What Are The Risks Of Not Filing A Hernia Mesh Claim If you’ve suffered complications from a hernia mesh implant, wondering if it’s worth filing a lawsuit. It can seem daunting to take legal action, but the risks of not filing a hernia mesh lawsuit are significant both to your health and your financial security. Possible Long-Term Health Issues First and foremost, failing to file a hernia mesh claim could mean missing out on the chance to obtain compensation for ongoing medical problems caused by the implant. Infections, bowel obstructions, and damage to other organs are only a few potential problems with hernia mesh failure. These issues can become increasingly worse over time if not sufficiently treated, further jeopardizing your health. Filing a claim ensures that you can seek damages related to subsequent surgeries or other medical treatment you may require down the line. Financial Hardship Another risk of not filing a claim is the financial strain that could come from mounting medical bills. If your hernia mesh has malfunctioned, you could face costly procedures, hospital stays, and continuous doctor visits. Without compensation, you’re left to pay for these out-of-pocket expenses, which can quickly add up. Even if your insurance covers part of the cost, you’re still likely to face co-pays, deductibles, and other related expenses. Filing a hernia mesh claim could help you recover these financial losses. Loss of Legal Rights By not filing a claim you may be giving up your rights. Most hernia mesh lawsuits will have a statute of limitations that you need to file by or else it is too late. If time runs out on you, then there’s nothing more you can do but miss out on compensation for all the pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages. There can also be emotional effects of such injury as well. It’s frustrating and stressful to know that you’re suffering because of someone else’s negligence. Filing a claim can help you feel empowered as you make the responsible parties pay for what they’ve done to you. No Chance of Compensation Lastly, one of the biggest risks of not filing a hernia mesh claim is that you could potentially miss out on the compensation you are owed. When you file a lawsuit, you could recover compensation for medical bills and wage loss, as well as damages associated with your pain and suffering. Therefore, if you're experiencing problems related to a hernia mesh implant, don't take chances with your health or finances. Immediately file a claim today! Read Also: Hagen Rosskopf Explain What to Look for in a Personal Injury Attorney Few Reasons Why You Deserve To Hire A Personal Injury Lawyer Florida Car Accident Lawyer: The Ultimate Approach to Winning Car Accident Cases 

READ MOREDetails