Selecting the Right Divorce Lawyer

If a divorce is in your immediate future, there are steps you can take to ensure that you choose a good attorney who will work to achieve the best outcome for you. First, determine what kind of attorney you'll need, or if you even need one at all. In no-fault divorce states, issues of asset division, custody and support often follow standard formulas. If you and your spouse can basically agree on these main points, you may only need a divorce mediator or an attorney who merely needs to push the paperwork through.

Chances are, however, that if you can't agree on custody issues, or have substantial assets to divide, that you will at the least require the services of a good attorney who has a few years of experience in family law or has good tax and financial awareness to help design an agreement that yields the best after-tax dollars. If your spouse is abusive and vindictive and you're concerned about your safety, you may need a lawyer who is prepared to do bloody battle on your behalf.

Ask for referrals from your family, friends and co-workers who have first-hand experience or may know someone else who has. Check with your state bar association. Research attorneys or law firms online to get a sense of their experience and win ratio. Interview at least three attorneys before choosing one you feel comfortable with. Ask about their fee structure and be sure you know exactly what is included. A good divorce attorney will be expensive, but if your case is complex or adversarial, it will be money well spent.