Choosing a Divorce Attorney in Orange County, California
Choosing a Divorce Attorney near me: Whether you have decided to file for divorce, your spouse has served you with divorce papers, or you and your spouse have decided to get a divorce together, you will likely need to discuss your situation with a qualified California divorce lawyer.
There are so many options regarding the terms of your divorce settlement that it is advised that every person at least have a consultation with a divorce lawyer to determine how to proceed with the divorce. Once you have decided how to move forward with your divorce, you will have a better understanding of how much assistance you will need from an attorney.
Do I Really Need a Divorce Lawyer in California?
Things you need to consider if you are unsure if you really Need a Divorce Attorney in California
Anyone can choose not to consult an attorney for a divorce. However, if you are considering not hiring an attorney, consider the following before you move forward without one.
Do you and your spouse agree on all issues relating to the divorce? This includes child custody, child support, spousal support, and the division of property and debts. Do you have accurate information regarding each topic so that you are able to make the right decisions?
Do you have the time and the relationship with your spouse to support working through the divorce together? The choice to forego an attorney in your divorce may be motivated by your budget. However, if your spouse hires a lawyer, or if you and your spouse do not have the communication skills to work through the terms of your divorce, you may end up spending more money and more time on it in the end.
What knowledge do you and your spouse have of the divorce system in California? Can you trust your spouse to be honest when it comes to things like the division of property and debts? One reason that it is a good idea to hire an attorney is because most people aren’t aware of what they don’t know. Sometimes getting a head start or knowing what to expect can help you better prepare for the next step in your divorce.
I want to know what my Options for a Divorce with Minimal Assistance from an Attorney are ...
What are my Options for a Divorce with Minimal Assistance from Attorneys?
Do you know what type of divorce you want, or for which type you are eligible? If you and your spouse do not agree on the terms of your divorce, there are several ways that they can be determined. Consider litigation, mediation, settling out of court, alternative dispute resolution, a legal separation, or a summary dissolution. A summary dissolution, and sometimes divorce mediation, a form of alternative dispute resolution, require little or no contact with attorneys. Discussing your situation with an attorney is always advised, even if it is not absolutely necessary.
Have you considered divorce mediation? Divorce mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that allows for minimal contact with attorneys, while allowing the divorcing couple to determine most of the terms of their own divorce settlement. It often saves money over a traditional litigated divorce, and can allow for a more flexible schedule.
How do I Choose a Divorce Attorney in Orange County?
Some good ways of finding the best Divorce Attorneys in Orange County are by searching the attorney's past client reviews and testimonials located on third party sites, such as Avvo, Yelp and Google
Where do I find the names of quality attorneys? If you’re looking for attorney, ask other professionals who may have used an attorney in the past. While looking for a divorce attorney, try asking people who have been through a divorce for a review of their attorney, and possibly, the attorney’s name. Maybe you’ll find out that their former spouse’s attorney was a better choice! Don’t be afraid to reach out to lawyers who don’t practice family law, mental or physical health professionals, or accountants for their advice on who to ask.
If you know you need to talk to an attorney, the best way to choose the right one is to talk to the attorney in an in person interview or consultation. The attorney should ask you questions, as well as ask you questions about your case.
Before you talk to the attorney, decide what is important to you. Do you have a strict budget? Make sure to discuss it with your attorney in the initial consultation. Are you concerned that your spouse may hide assets in the divorce? Ask your attorney about his or her experience with the division of assets and lying spouses in divorces. Are you concerned about child custody? Find an attorney who has experience working with children or determining child custody cases in California.
So, how do you know what to ask an attorney and how do you know what to look for in an attorney?
Cost, payment, and fees are important in any legal transaction. Does your attorney charge you a retainer, an hourly rate, or a combination? What types of payment does the attorney accept? Is your initial consultation free or does it have a reduced rate? Are court costs included in the attorneys fees, or are they an additional cost? For which parts of the case will the attorney be responsible, and for which parts will you be responsible?
Ask about the attorney’s experience and credentials. How long has the attorney been practicing law? What is the attorney’s experience in cases similar to yours? Ask for the attorney’s estimate for the cost and length of time that your case will take. You should also ask for the attorney’s opinion on how you should move forward with your divorce.
How do you get along with the attorney? An in person consultation is the best way to get an understanding of how well you like the attorney. He or she will be helping you through one of the most stressful parts of your life, and you will be spending a lot of time together, so choose an attorney who makes you feel comfortable. Is the location of the attorney’s office convenient for you? Will the attorney meet you outside of his or her office?
For Choosing a Divorce Attorney near me, contact Yanez & Associates
Choosing a Divorce Attorney in Orange County
In Summary, choosing a divorce attorney can be an arduous task. Therefore, it is important to have a plan as to how you will conduct your research regarding choosing a divorce attorney. Research can be conducted online to help you find the attorney that is best suited to serve the needs of your family.
There are several issues that should be considered when narrowing your list of divorce attorneys. First, how much will the services cost? Second, what jurisdiction is my case in. This will help determine which county to hire your family law attorney in. Third, are there flexible payment options available at any particular family law firm?
Referrals from family and friends often come in handy when selecting a divorce attorney. The reason for this is that your family, friends, relatives, or coworkers may have worked with the attorney or firm and know the way they operate. They will also be able to provide you with a review that may hold more credence since you know these individuals on a personal level. If you are unaware of any referrals you may also research reviews of any particular law firm online. Often times past or current clients will provide feedback regarding there experiences with the attorneys at the law firm.
For additional information regarding divorce and family law please contact your local family law attorney's. Please call Yanez & Associates for your free initial consultation. We look forward to assisting you with your family law and divorce matter.
Divorce & Family Law Firm located in Orange County
If you’re looking for a divorce attorney serving Irvine, Santa Ana or Anaheim, contact the family lawyers at Yanez & Associates today. Schedule your free initial consultation, and we’ll help you determine how to move forward in your divorce.
