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Hiring a lawyer can feel like a daunting step no matter what legal action you are pursuing. In the world of family law, we know that even the first step forward can feel monumental.

While all legal matters are not the same, there are standard factors to think through before starting an attorney-client relationship. Here are three tips to take into consideration before hiring an attorney for any legal matter.  

Research Before Meeting  

The legal field runs on word-of-mouth recommendations. Ask your community where they’ve had legal success. You might be surprised to find that a friend or family member has a testimonial to share that will point you in the right direction. There are also many legal directories, such as Justia and Lawyers.com that can provide insight into an attorney’s reputation. These sites typically contain information about experience, practice areas, and highlight peer and client reviews.  

Know Your Goals For Litigation   

When you decide to pursue legal action, it is good to have clear goals. Knowing your outcome expectations will help the attorney assess whether they can help you meet those goals. A good attorney will also help set realistic expectations if needed. If you are looking for a lawyer for a family law matter, you might consider the following when trying to clarify your goals: Do you want a speedy divorce? Full-time custody? A comprehensive premarital agreement? Assessing your wants and organizing your goals will help you save money by saving time when you eventually meet with an attorney.  

Have a Good Feeling About The Lawyer  

Hiring a lawyer means starting an attorney-client relationship. As with any relationship, you should have a good feeling about the commitment you are entering. Most attorneys require a consultation before taking on a new client. During a consultation, you’ll learn how the attorney communicates, how they plan to meet your goals, and their overall personality. You don’t need to be friends with your attorney, but you should feel assured that they will fight for you.

PRO TIP: You might find law firms that offer free consultations for short appointments. Just remember that you get what you pay for. A consultation under 30 minutes might not be enough time to fully explain the complexities of your case and get an understanding of your next steps forward.   

Hiring a lawyer doesn’t have to be an intimidating process. A good and ethical lawyer will serve you while also preserving the dignity of the legal profession. At Phillips & Peters, we offer one-hour consultations with our attorneys in person, virtually, and over the phone. Let us help you move forward by taking your first step with a consultation.