How to Hire a Family Law Lawyer

Posted by kamal on January 20th, 2016

Hiring a family law lawyer is one thing you will have to do if your marriage is on the rocks. A lawyer who has experience in family law will help you not only in processing your divorce, but also in preparing marriage and co-habitation agreements as well as property division. It’s a good idea to have a long-term relationship with a family law lawyer especially if you have children or aging parents who may require extra care.

A lot of people think that finding a family law lawyer is stressful and expensive. But it doesn’t have to be, given the number of experienced and professional family law lawyers in Halifax. Here are some tips to make your search easier:

1. Think of your requirements

Make a list of your requirements, both present and prospective. Do you need a family lawyer who will just be aiding in your application for divorce? Or do you want a lawyer who can provide family law and tax planning as you have complicated financial assets? Knowing what you need makes it a lot easier for you to hire the right lawyer.

2. Create a shortlist

Once you have identified your needs, you should make a shortlist of potential family lawyers in Halifax that can work with you. Start by asking around. Your colleagues, old college buddies, and even business partners may be able to refer you to an lawyer.

You can also go online and search on Google for lawyers who are operating or based in your area. But do take the time to read their websites before you set up an appointment with them.

Come up with a short list of at least three lawyers who appear to have qualifications and experience. Then start meeting up with them.

3. Ask the right questions during the meet-up

Many people think that the a 30-minute meeting with a prospective lawyer would cost them a lot of money. But this is not always the case. There are lawyers who are willing to meet up with prospective clients for free.

During the interview, be honest with the prospective lawyer. Discuss every issue that you have so he can give the best possible advice. You should see how comfortable you are with the lawyer. The lawyer must also have good communication skills as they will be communicating with the judge and jury on your behalf.

Finally, make sure you know their rates. Lawyers in Halifax have different ways of charging clients. For most clients, the professional fee and the payment plans are often the deal breaker.