No matter how couples get on each other’s nerves or claim to be incompatible, filing a divorce petition would always be emotionally draining for each of them. Yes, they might be dying to live a life apart, but these people used to be each other’s ride or die. It’s only because of some unpleasant circumstances that they decided to end their union.

If you find yourself or a loved one in such an unfortunate situation, finding a divorce lawyer is the best way to settle the matter. However, if you want the most favorable outcome, don’t hire just any lawyer you know. Here are things to know when choosing a divorce attorney.

Choose someone specializing in divorce proceedings

Lawyers may study the same laws for years and pass the same bar exam, but everything changes in actual practice, especially in the litigation stages. A criminal lawyer may be an expert in the rules of criminal procedure as they tackle criminal litigations every day. Meaning, they can fight criminal cases in court with ease, even if they’re blindfolded. However, it would take time for them to prepare for a divorce proceeding. Why? Simply because it’s not their specialization. 

When you choose to work with an attorney specializing in divorce, you can guarantee that all the case’s nitty-gritty is taken care of. Even if the parties can’t reach an amicable settlement and the case would escalate into a full-blown court proceeding, you know that someone competent is handling it. And also, you can be assured that you’re well-represented when dealing with property partition and child custody. 

Go for a divorce lawyer with a proven track record 

We’re not discrediting new and budding lawyers since seasoned lawyers once start as novices. Then again, when your own life and property are at stake,  it would work in your favor if you choose someone with a proven record. So, scout for possible divorce lawyers to hire in your area. Ask for recommendations from friends and acquaintances if they could refer you to someone who has handled and won many divorce cases. 

In an uncontested divorce, things would be easier since both parties will only have to sign the document that reflects their voluntary agreement. In that case, your divorce attorney would have to come up and negotiate favorable terms for you and shut down unconscionable claims from your estranged spouse. However, if you can’t reach a binding agreement, the next legal recourse is to fight out in court. This is where your lawyer’s experience could be put to the test. 

Choose someone you’re comfortable with

Things can get ugly and messy in a divorce proceeding. It may come to a point when one has to allege the other party’s infidelity, psychological unfitness, and other unpleasant behavior and acts to justify filing the divorce petition. These reasons are personal to the spouses; hence, one might find uncomfortable and awkward sharing. Your lawyer will be your constant companion all through the process. In that case, it would be easier if you’re comfortable sharing private information like those mentioned above with them. 

Lawyers need you to be honest if you want them to help you. They need to know even the ‘ugliest truth’ to find a way to defend you when the other party uses the same ‘truth’ to discredit you and your claims. Just imagine sharing all these things with someone you don’t like or trust. Chances are, you might end up filtering your story or only sharing what’s comfortable. In the end, it’s you who will suffer the most from such a relationship that’s devoid of trust and confidence. There is also a very high chance that you’ll lose the case. 

Can you give up on your rights over your communal properties? Can you give up on your kids? If not, then choose a lawyer you can be entirely truthful and open with. 

Takeaway 

They say that it takes two to tango in relationships. For the marriage to work, two people must be committed to each other and the union. However, if the union doesn’t prosper and divorce is the only solution to the problem, hire a confident divorce lawyer with a proven track record. Then again, getting a lawyer is just half of the battle. You also need to do your part by cooperating and being honest with your attorney. Therefore, you need to choose a defender that’s competent and pleasant to work with.  

At the end of the day, when dancing the tango with your spouse is no longer pleasant, it’s time to pair up and dance with someone willing to help you secure the best life decision — your divorce lawyer.