You and your spouse have decided to end the marriage and agree on all pertinent matters. Together, you have figured out things like child custody, alimony, child support, and how the assets & debts will be distributed. Since Massachusetts allows for no-fault divorces, you should be able to complete the process within a few months. It’s time to initiate the legal proceedings and start with the paperwork. Before you take the next step, it makes sense to talk to a Boston divorce attorney. If you are never worked with a family lawyer, it can be hard to make a choice. In this post, we are sharing the five signs of a good attorney.
- The lawyer is prompt. When you call a law firm to get an appointment, you should get immediate assistance. If you find that an attorney is responsive, it is certainly a mark of their professional attitude. The office staff will schedule a meeting without delay.
- The lawyer has the experience and is willing to discuss things. A competent divorce lawyer will talk about their work profile, the kind of cases they handle, and what you can expect from the process. They will also offer references on request and wouldn’t mind discussing their landmark cases without compromising client confidentiality.
- The lawyer is upfront. If an attorney says things that sound extremely sappy, do not believe them. Skilled divorce lawyers never lie to clients or set unrealistic expectations. They will ensure the client knows all options and the implications of each decision.
- The lawyer is ready for mediation. Divorces don’t have to be hard or complex. Even when there is a remote chance that things can be resolved and discussed with your spouse, you should aim at mediation. A smart divorce lawyer will ensure that the option is considered.
- The lawyer is also open to fighting for your rights. Just because mediation is easy doesn’t mean it is the right choice for you. If your attorney finds that your spouse is playing mind games and wants to deny your rights, they will take the aggressive approach or at least must have the skills to do so.
Finally, a qualified and professional lawyer will also discuss their fee in advance. Depending on your situation, the divorce lawyer may charge a flat fee or bill you for each hour of work. Check online to find local family lawyers in Boston, and don’t forget to ask questions about the legal work.
