Reasons to Hire a Family Law Lawyer
A family law lawyer specializes in legal issues surrounding family matters. The most common types of cases requiring this type of legal advisor include prenuptial contracts, divorce settlements, child support and spousal alimony, adoption and guardianship of minor children, domestic violence and child abuse.
Selecting an appropriate family law lawyer is particularly important in cases involving child abuse or domestic violence. These types of cases can literally be a matter of life or death, but rarely provide people with the opportunity to scout out the best lawyer for the job. In these situations it can be helpful to ask family or friends for referrals or contact the state Bar Association.
Divorce is another area that requires clients to carefully select a lawyer; especially when children are involved. Family law attorneys should be capable of helping spouses renounce their marriage on amicable terms, while ensuring clients receive a fair settlement. It is imperative to work with law firms who are advocates for children's rights and are not afraid to enter into battle to protect minor children.
Choosing a lawyer that is compatible with your personality can be helpful because clients often spend a fair amount of time with their legal team. Deciding what type of lawyer you prefer to work with can help narrow down selections.
Considerations might include whether you want to work with a male or female attorney; whether you prefer an aggressive lawyer or one who is calm and composed; and if you require a lawyer with extensive experience or can accomplish goals with lawyers who are just starting out.
It can be beneficial to draft a list of questions and concerns you have about the case, as well as the desired outcome. It will be easier to locate law firms suited to your needs by preparing lists and deciding the qualities you desire.
It is a good idea to organize important documents that pertain to your case before meeting with lawyers. For example, those obtaining prenuptial agreements will need to present earnings statements, real estate holdings, business assets, financial portfolios, property appraisals, and property deeds.
It can be helpful to interview several family law attorneys to determine which is best suited for your needs. Most law firms offer complimentary meet-and-greet sessions to discuss the case and determine fees. It is imperative to discuss fees, retainer payments, and payment schedules before entering into a contract.
Most law firms require clients to provide an upfront retainer. The standard retainer is usually 25-percent or more of expected costs. Lawyers can charge clients an hourly rate or flat fee. Cases requiring extensive research or court appearances are often billed at an hourly rate. Cases requiring minimal work, such as legal name changes, are often billed at a flat rate.
Law firms also assess fees for backend expenses such as paralegal work, phone consultations, copying and faxing documents, and postage fees. These expenses are usually deducted from the retainer, but some lawyers require clients to pay backend fees on a monthly basis.
A family law lawyer typically expects payment when services are rendered. Under certain circumstances, lawyers will allow clients to establish a payment plan. If payment plans are offered it is important to ensure you can comply with the terms. Otherwise, attorneys may refuse to provide services until payments are current. Always obtain payment agreements in writing to ensure everyone is aware of payment amounts and dates.
Individuals who are in need of legal counsel, but cannot afford fees may qualify for pro bono services. Pro bono is typically based on clients' income, but some lawyers offer gratis or low-cost services when clients are in desperate need.
A good place to locate qualified attorneys is through the American Bar Association. Although the ABA does not provide referrals, they do publish a nationwide list of family law lawyers who are in good standing with the organization at abanet.org.
Selecting an appropriate family law lawyer is particularly important in cases involving child abuse or domestic violence. These types of cases can literally be a matter of life or death, but rarely provide people with the opportunity to scout out the best lawyer for the job. In these situations it can be helpful to ask family or friends for referrals or contact the state Bar Association.
Divorce is another area that requires clients to carefully select a lawyer; especially when children are involved. Family law attorneys should be capable of helping spouses renounce their marriage on amicable terms, while ensuring clients receive a fair settlement. It is imperative to work with law firms who are advocates for children's rights and are not afraid to enter into battle to protect minor children.
Choosing a lawyer that is compatible with your personality can be helpful because clients often spend a fair amount of time with their legal team. Deciding what type of lawyer you prefer to work with can help narrow down selections.
Considerations might include whether you want to work with a male or female attorney; whether you prefer an aggressive lawyer or one who is calm and composed; and if you require a lawyer with extensive experience or can accomplish goals with lawyers who are just starting out.
It can be beneficial to draft a list of questions and concerns you have about the case, as well as the desired outcome. It will be easier to locate law firms suited to your needs by preparing lists and deciding the qualities you desire.
It is a good idea to organize important documents that pertain to your case before meeting with lawyers. For example, those obtaining prenuptial agreements will need to present earnings statements, real estate holdings, business assets, financial portfolios, property appraisals, and property deeds.
It can be helpful to interview several family law attorneys to determine which is best suited for your needs. Most law firms offer complimentary meet-and-greet sessions to discuss the case and determine fees. It is imperative to discuss fees, retainer payments, and payment schedules before entering into a contract.
Most law firms require clients to provide an upfront retainer. The standard retainer is usually 25-percent or more of expected costs. Lawyers can charge clients an hourly rate or flat fee. Cases requiring extensive research or court appearances are often billed at an hourly rate. Cases requiring minimal work, such as legal name changes, are often billed at a flat rate.
Law firms also assess fees for backend expenses such as paralegal work, phone consultations, copying and faxing documents, and postage fees. These expenses are usually deducted from the retainer, but some lawyers require clients to pay backend fees on a monthly basis.
A family law lawyer typically expects payment when services are rendered. Under certain circumstances, lawyers will allow clients to establish a payment plan. If payment plans are offered it is important to ensure you can comply with the terms. Otherwise, attorneys may refuse to provide services until payments are current. Always obtain payment agreements in writing to ensure everyone is aware of payment amounts and dates.
Individuals who are in need of legal counsel, but cannot afford fees may qualify for pro bono services. Pro bono is typically based on clients' income, but some lawyers offer gratis or low-cost services when clients are in desperate need.
A good place to locate qualified attorneys is through the American Bar Association. Although the ABA does not provide referrals, they do publish a nationwide list of family law lawyers who are in good standing with the organization at abanet.org.
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