Finding the right lawyer for you and your situation can start to get overwhelming. Especially since there are so many good Durban divorce lawyers advertising their services. There may be a fair share of divorce attorneys around, but they are definitely not all the same.
Because there are different sections of legal representation, not all lawyers specialise in family law. You definitely should not seek legal advice from just any lawyer. Divorces are especially personal and you want someone in your corner that knows what they are doing. The best lawyer for your case is one that fits what you want out of your divorce. Choosing the wrong lawyer could mean that they are either too pushy or not pushy enough to get you what you want.
Realising mid-way through your divorce proceedings that you have made the wrong choice can turn out to be a hassle and costly. Keep reading to discover how you can make sure that you make the right choice when choosing your divorce lawyer in Durban.
Our guide is simple. There is no exact formula to choosing your legal representation. It is focused on doing your research, setting your expectations and then going with what you think is best.
1- Understand the Role of Your Divorce Lawyer
Some attornies may be great at listening to why the divorce is happening, keep in mind that dealing with your frustration is not their role. Your divorce lawyer is not a therapist. They are an attorney first.
2 – Set Expectations for Your Lawyer
While there are some unavoidably emotional areas of the process, it is part of your attorney’s role to get you to focus on the logical aspects of what is happening as well as your long-term goal.
Comprehending what your legal counsel does before things begin will help you set realistic expectations for the entire process and your relationship.
3 – Decide What Kind of Divorce Process You Need
Think about whether you think your divorce is going to be contested, whether you can work through things, or if you need help getting things resolved. The amount of conflict in your divorce will have an impact on how things play out.
4 – Consider Your Budget
Some make the mistake of assuming they cannot afford an attorney but be sure to discuss your budget with any potential lawyer. Letting them know about your budget constraints is important as some lawyers may have flexible payment options.
5 – Do Your Research
With so much information available at our fingertips, you can easily Google an attorney near you to find out more about them and their experience. Make sure that whoever you have in mind is experienced in family law.
6 – Talk to Loved Ones
Another kind of “research” you should do is to chat with family and friends about their experience with Durban lawyers. If you have a divorced loved one, find out who they used and whether they would use them again.
7 – Prepare Questions
Getting a divorce is different for everyone. Take the time to consider your priorities and build questions to ask your prospective representation.
Examples of questions include:
- How does the court decide visitation?
- How will the house be “divided” between us?
8 – Identify Possible Lawyers & Reach Out
Once you have chosen two or three possible attornies, set up consultations if possible. Take some time to talk to each attorney about your case. All lawyers will have a different perspective on your case. Ask some of the most important questions and see how their responses differ.
9 – Watch Out for Red Flags
You want a divorce lawyer that is going to treat your proceedings as a priority.
Some red flags are:
- Failing to go through aspects of your case – you should not feel like you are being pushed through this process
- Distracted or rushed during the consultation – this is your time
- Making promises – nothing is guaranteed
10 – Choose a Divorce LawyerThat Feels Right
At this stage, you will know who has the knowledge and experience you need. Your divorce lawyer should feel like someone you can trust and has your best interests in mind. Choose an attorney that has the knowledge, experience, and personality you need to meet your case’s needs.
The Law Offices of Karen Olivier
Divorce is not an easy thing to go through emotionally or in practice. There are moving parts, admin procedures, and real people involved such as your family and perhaps even children.
With the help of the Law Offices of Karen Olivier, you get access to a knowledgeable and compassionate team of divorce lawyers in Durban. Our team of family lawyers will help you navigate these legal issues while keeping your family’s best interests at heart.