Although divorce happens often, it’s still a stressful and life-altering experience. Even if you go through more than one divorce, there can be a lot of uncertainty throughout the process. If you need to hire a divorce attorney in Utah, here are some questions to ask.
1. Do You Specialize in Divorce?
Since there are so many variables in divorce proceedings, it’s imperative to have a divorce attorney who is familiar with divorce cases. Feel free to ask your potential lawyer how many divorce cases they’ve previously handled, and whether they typically represent husbands or wives. Keep in mind that an attorney who practices family law may not have much experience with divorce specifically, or custody arrangements in Utah.
2. What’s Your Retainer Fee?
When you hire a lawyer, there is typically a retainer fee. This is a pre-determined amount that will be paid by the client upfront and allows the lawyer to get paid for the initial work of preparing a case. A retainer fee does not include all of the costs of hiring a lawyer, and additional fees for services rendered may be required.
3. How Do You Bill for Services?
Since not everything is included in the upfront retainer fee, be sure you know how your divorce attorney intends to bill for services. Is there an itemized bill sent? Are a certain number of hours covered each month? What’s the hourly rate? Get the money questions addressed first thing so you know whether or not you can afford a particular lawyer before going any further.
4. What’s Your Typical Strategy?
There’s no question that myriad variables are present in each divorce. However, you can still ask your potential divorce attorney what type of strategy they typically employ. Ask how they act as a mediator, a peacekeeper, or how comfortable they are being aggressive if the need arises.
5. How Often Do You Settle Out of Court?
Keeping your divorce proceedings out of court can sometimes save you time and money. To settle doesn’t mean you’re giving up on what you want; with a skilled attorney from the Rulon T. Burton team, a settlement means you’ve successfully compromised with your ex regarding divorce proceedings. If your lawyer doesn’t routinely settle out of court, that’s not necessarily a bad thing. However, ask if there are additional fees or costs for a case that is not settled out of court.
6. Are You Familiar with My Ex and/or Their Counsel?
Before things get official, ask your divorce attorney if they know your ex, or the person representing them. It could be a conflict of interest if your attorney personally knows your ex. It’s not necessarily a bad thing if your lawyer knows your ex’s counsel; it can sometimes be an advantage. Regardless, don’t be afraid to ask.
7. What’s Your Experience with Alimony Cases?
In some cases, financial support for a spouse will be part of a divorce. If so, you’ll want an attorney who is familiar with alimony. The amount of spousal support paid is dependent upon myriad factors, so an attorney who knows the ins and outs is crucial so you are supported financially after a divorce. Plus, if you are currently financially dependent on your soon-to-be ex, you may need your lawyer to petition for your ex to cover attorney fees during the divorce.
8. Are You Familiar with Child Custody and Support Procedures?
Similarly, child custody and child support can be affected by a variety of specifics. Hire a divorce attorney who will be an advocate for you and your children if you are going to establish custody arrangements and child support payments through the court system.
9. Who Else Will Be Involved in My Case?
You may have one lawyer handling your case, or aspects could be divvied up between other members of the law firm. You have a right to meet anyone helping with your divorce, so ask upfront who else will be involved. Knowing who else is involved keeps you in the loop, and keeps you aware of the fees you may be paying to whom and why.
10. How Will I Reach You?
Eliminate one stressor from your life and establish the best means of communication your lawyer prefers. You’ll likely have scheduled appointments with the divorce attorney you hire, but sometimes you’ll need to get in touch between those meetings. Be sure you’re clear on how you can reach your attorney, and whether phone, email, or text is best. Also, discuss how additional communication and counsel will be billed to your case.
At Rulon T Burton, we specialize in divorce, not just family law. Our Utah divorce experts are here for you every step of the way, whether you have children or not. You can contact us at 801-305-3702 for answers to these questions and more.