A divorce can be one of the most emotionally and financially stressful times in a person’s life. When you hire an attorney for your divorce, there are certain things you should expect from them which show their compassion and commitment to your case. Below are some of these expectations:
Communication
Your attorney should communicate effectively with you throughout your divorce case. They should clearly explain the process so you understand each step and what to expect. Your lawyer should inform you of your rights and obligations and outline all possible outcomes of your case. Additionally, they should keep you updated on any progress and promptly address any concerns, questions, or issues you may have.
Active Listening
Your attorney should be listening attentively to your concerns, fears, and emotions without judgment. They should also allow you to express your feelings and experiences fully, which helps build trust and understanding of your matter.
Empathy and Understanding
You should expect your divorce lawyer to demonstrate empathy by acknowledging the emotional and psychological challenges you are facing. By showing genuine concern for your well-being and that of your children, your lawyer will help you feel more comfortable.
Personalized Attention
Even if your attorney has many cases they are handling, treating you as an individual rather than just another case and recognizing that your situation is unique is vital to a good attorney-client relationship. This may include taking the time to understand your specific needs, priorities, and goals.
Availability and Accessibility
Your divorce lawyer should be reasonably accessible during office hours and responsive so you feel supported at all times. Your attorney should not be too difficult to reach so you can schedule a telephone call or meeting.
Holistic Approach
A good divorce attorney needs to consider the impact of your case on all aspects of your life, including emotional, financial, and relational factors. This means they should be striving for solutions that support your overall well-being and future stability instead of prolonging the case unnecessarily or convincing you to take routes you know may impact you or your family negatively.
Minimizing Conflict
Your attorney should be encouraging amicable resolutions and mediation where possible to reduce stress and conflict. By focusing on collaborative solutions that benefit all parties, especially any children involved, your attorney will be saving you time, money, and stress.
Advocacy
A divorce lawyer should advocate for you as much as possible during the divorce process. A strong advocate ensures that your legal rights are protected during every step. This includes safeguarding your interests in matters such as property division, child custody, and support arrangements. Advocating for you means not only doing so in a courtroom but also in mediation or during negotiations and communications with your spouse’s attorney.
Transparency and Honesty
Being honest about the likely outcomes and potential challenges, so you can set realistic expectations is an important trait you should expect from your divorce lawyer. Sometimes this may mean telling you things you may not want to hear but need to hear such as what the outcome of your case might be.
Empowerment
Lastly, by doing all of the above, your divorce lawyer should empower you during the dissolution of your marriage. Your soon-to-be ex-spouse may make you feel helpless and overwhelmed. A good divorce lawyer should help you process those feelings and fight for you and your wishes. By doing so, you will feel more in control of your life and less helpless during the divorce process.
The divorce process is oftentimes one of the most difficult periods of a person’s life. Your divorce attorney should provide all the above to make this period less painful. If you have questions regarding your divorce, give our knowledgeable, compassionate, and client-focused attorneys a call to discuss your situation.