How to Find a Divorce Attorney

If you’re contemplating divorce, there’s a good chance you’ve already got enough going on in life without adding the stress of finding and hiring a divorce attorney into the mix.

While there isn’t much a person can do to the avoid the trouble of searching for a divorce lawyer once a relationship split is imminent, there are a handful of ways to make the entire process less complicated and arduous.

Be Sure the Split Is Imminent

Couples don’t need to start searching for divorce lawyers every time they have a minor argument, which is why anyone contemplating doing so should be sure that they are truly ready for divorce before hiring a qualified divorce attorney.

Not only is seeking and consulting with divorce attorneys a waste of time if the separation a couple is going through is not permanent, but it can be a costly exercise too, since divorce attorneys don’t come cheap. In the New York area, for example, attorneys have been known to ask for a $10,500 to $20,000 retainer up front in divorce cases, much of which will be lost should the client decide to back out of the case.

In an effort to waste as little time and money as possible, anyone considering divorce should be sure of their decision before consulting with any attorneys on the matter.

Ask For Recommendations

The best way to find a qualified lawyer is by asking family members or trusted friends for a referral. Due to the sensitive and private nature of divorce cases, however, many people don’t feel as comfortable asking a family member for a recommendation when the case involves divorce as they may feel asking for a recommendation for a case involving real estate or living trusts.

In these instances, clients may feel more at ease asking a more objective—but skill knowledgeable—party who is separated from the situation, such as an accountant and financial advisor. Another option is to call a nearby bar association and ask for the names of licensed attorneys practicing nearby who specialize in divorce.

Consider Costs

Just because an A-list lawyer is willing to take your case doesn’t mean you will necessarily be able to afford his fees.

The amount of money that different attorneys charge to handle divorce cases can vary greatly, even within the same geographical area. Although some lawyers may be willing to charge clients on an hourly basis (usually $100 to $500 per hour) others expect to be paid a $15,o00—or higher—retainer prior to agreeing to take on a case.

How much a client can afford is usually one of the biggest determining factors when it comes to hiring a divorce attorney, which is why you should be up front when inquiring about costs and fees prior to booking a consultation appointment.