Choosing a good Divorce Lawyer in Phoenix is an important decision for people who are facing divorce or a legal separation. A skilled divorce attorney can help their client skillfully navigate the process to achieve the desired results. They have experience in a wide range of family law issues including divorce, custody, visitation, child support and spousal support. They take the time to understand their clients closely so they can offer them appropriate advice and representation.
Getting a divorce is stressful, especially for couples who have children. It can be difficult to sort out who is entitled to what in the marital estate. The best way to avoid being taken advantage of during this process is by hiring an experienced Phoenix divorce lawyer. A good divorce lawyer will walk their clients through the process and explain how property is distributed, how alimony or child support may be calculated and what rights they have regarding custody, visitation and financial matters.
Some attorneys claim to specialize in divorce or family law, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are the best fit for your case. When you’re interviewing potential divorce lawyers, make a list of questions to ask them about their experience and approach to divorce cases. Write down their answers and note their demeanor during the meeting. If you notice that they are rude, interrupt you or speak poorly of other attorneys, those are red flags that you should keep looking for another lawyer.
There are many other factors to consider when choosing a divorce lawyer, such as whether they charge hourly rates or if they have a flat fee arrangement for their services. A flat fee arrangement can save you money in the long run by preventing unnecessary expenses and ensuring that the attorney is focused on the most important aspects of your case.
When selecting a divorce lawyer, it’s also a good idea to look for one who practices in the jurisdiction where your case will be heard. An out-of-state attorney won’t know the ins and outs of the local court system, and they may not have the same reputation as a local professional. You can also seek out referrals from other professionals you trust, such as your accountant, psychotherapist, tax professional or teacher.
The most common issues that a divorce attorney handles are spousal support, child custody and child support. Those three issues are the most contentious in any divorce case and can have a significant impact on your future. Ideally, you should find an attorney who can assist you in reaching a negotiated settlement with your spouse regarding all of these issues without having to go to trial. They will be able to guide you through the mediation process or through a collaborative divorce and can work with your spouse to determine what amount of spousal support, if any, is appropriate.