Whether you’re considering a divorce or planning a pre-nuptial agreement, a family law professional can handle the complicated paperwork involved. Your attorney will guide you through the intricate details as well as complete and file the documentation so that it’s legally binding. Before you hire a lawyer, however, you want to check that they are a good fit for your needs. Ask these questions in your initial consultation to make sure.

3 Questions for Vetting Family Law Professionals

1. What Are Your Options?

A reputable family law professional will provide an overview of what options are available to you during a first meeting. Say you want to end your marriage – is an annulment, legal separation, or divorce for you? Your attorney should also be able to give you an idea of whether your expectations – for example regarding child custody or alimony – are reasonable. You want to know what you are getting yourself into.

2. Who Will Handle Your Case?

Don’t assume that the person you meet with in an initial consultation will handle your case. Sometimes paperwork is passed down to junior lawyers, for example. You need to know who will be handling your case and how to reach them.

3. How Do They Charge?

There is no point hiring a family law professional if you can’t afford their rates. Ask potential lawyers what their rates are and how their fees are structured. Will they charge hourly? Will they ask for an initial retainer? Are you also going to be billed for administrative costs, like courier services? The right attorney for you doesn’t have to be the most expensive.

Family law issues impact your life in a deeply personal way – don’t leave these matters to an inexperienced attorney. John Rorem has been serving the Gig Harbor, WA, area with trusted counsel for over 50 years. He is known for the detailed attention he gives every case and will guide you through your legal issues with confidence. Learn more about the law firm’s practice areas online. To request a consultation, call (253) 858-5358.