Divorce is a difficult process, and it's important to have the right lawyer on your side. But how do you know which lawyer is the right one for you? In this article, we'll discuss the key points to consider when talking to a divorce lawyer, from alimony and child support to the cost of the process. The first thing to consider is alimony. According to the Family Code 271, alimony is a form of financial support that one spouse pays to the other after a divorce.
Your lawyer should explain the different types of penalties available if your spouse does not cooperate during the process of discovering or disclosing a divorce. It's also important to talk to your lawyer about any children you and your spouse have together, especially if they are minors. Your lawyer should have experience with the special circumstances of your divorce and be able to explain what they will bring to the table. They should also be able to tell you about ways to resolve your case that are most efficient, and how compromise can make the settlement more likely and therefore less expensive.
Your lawyer will need to get up to speed on your employment situation and your spouse's employment status. Feel free to ask about their experience and credentials, or any specific outcomes related to your divorce case. Before you leave the meeting, make sure you ask what they need from you in order to effectively prepare for the next steps in your case. Most lawyers charge by the hour, so make sure you know what you're getting into financially before signing anything.
If you want to mediate and negotiate, but your lawyer doesn't want to go to trial, that disagreement could affect the success of your case. Your lawyer will most likely ask you to bring statements from any IRA, pension, or 401 (k) accounts that you or your spouse have. During your first meeting with a lawyer, you can discuss possible strategies to better manage the cost of a divorce. It's important to find a talented divorce lawyer who has been successful in settling out of court in order to reach a compromise and save money.