WHAT MAKES A GOOD DIVORCE LAWYER?
A strong family lawyer will be:
- Strategic
- Experienced
- Realistic
- Calm under pressure
- Clear about costs
- Focused on settlement, not escalation
UNDERSTANDING THEIR EXPERTISE
Ask:
- Do they handle financial remedy work regularly?
- Do they deal with cases involving businesses?
- Do they understand international jurisdiction?
- Do they work with forensic accountants and valuation experts?
You need a lawyer who can match the complexity of your situation.
EVALUATE COMMUNICATION STYLE
You should feel:
- Heard
- Understood
- Informed
- Respected
- Not rushed
Their communication style will influence the entire process.
Key Question:
“When I speak to them, do I feel calmer or more stressed?”
PRICING MODELS & TRANSPARENCY
You should receive:
- Fixed fees (if possible)
- Clear breakdowns
- No hidden extras
- A transparent plan
Ask how costs are tracked and communicated.
STRATEGY: THE QUESTIONS THAT MATTER
Ask:
- What are the likely outcomes?
- What are the risks?
- What is the timeline?
- How do you approach negotiation?
- When would you recommend court?
- What is your experience with cases like mine?
Their answers will tell you everything.
RED FLAGS
Be cautious if the lawyer:
- Promises guaranteed outcomes
- Tries to escalate conflict unnecessarily
- Is vague about costs
- Delegates everything to juniors
- Is slow to reply
- Talks more than they listen
KEY QUESTIONS FOR YOUR FIRST MEETING
- How long do cases like mine typically take?
- How much will this likely cost overall?
- How often will we communicate?
- Who will do the work on my file?
- What is the best and worst-case scenario?
- How can I keep my fees down?
