Blog

03Nov
The Initial Consultation

With the many complex components that factor into a divorce, it is important to have an attorney on your side that is dedicated to your case and has ample experience in areas specific to your needs. Divorce can be a scary, emotionally trying, and completely foreign experience, so it’s important to have some questions ready for your attorney when you arrive for your initial consultation. Seeking answers to some of these questions will give you the confidence you need to choose an attorney who can get you the best results.

Experience

  • Find out how many cases your attorney has successfully handled through mediation and how many have been settled in court. Every case will be different depending on the personalities and the needs of the individuals involved, but it is important to know that your attorney can settle divorce effectively in both the courtroom and the mediation room.
  • What is your attorney’s specialty? Discuss specific concerns you have regarding your individual case and find out what level of experience your attorney has in dealing with these issues. Some examples include negotiating unusual child support, complex financial assets, and business valuation. Arizona family law attorney Brad Crider is an expert in dealing with financial and business dealings in divorce.
  • Before you meet with an attorney, you should think about whether you’d like to pursue a more amiable collaborative divorce, use third party mediation, or go to court. Be realistic in deciding which methods will work best for your case. If you and your spouse have a hostile relationship for example, avoid spending the extra money, time, and frustration to pursue a collaborative divorce. Be sure there is not a conflict of interest between your attorney, your spouse, or your spouse’s attorney.

Expectations

  • Ask about any other parties that will be involved in your case. If another attorney will be working on your case jointly or independently, find out his/her credentials and level of experience.
  • Discuss the means of communication (phone, email, etc.) that work best for both of you. Find out how often, what days, and what time of day you should expect to meet. Make sure your attorney will be able to give your case the attention it deserves.
  • How involved will you be in the case? Will your attorney notify you of or ask your opinion about any and/or all developments or setbacks?

Finances

  • Make sure you know up front how much you will be expected to pay and budget accordingly. From the attorney’s answers to previous questions, evaluate if what they can offer you is worth a slightly higher retainer fee or hourly rate.
  • Discuss the billing procedures and draw up a detailed fee agreement for all parties to sign.

Contact Crider Law to set up your initial consultation today. Brad Crider understands that your case is unique and he will work with you and for you to ensure the best possible results. He tailors his approach to meet the needs of each client and always has your best interest in mind.

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