How to Find a Good Divorce Lawyer

When it comes to divorce, you'll want to find an attorney that will not only fight for what you deserve, but also will settle the matter in a way that's consistent with your personal values and goals. This page will show you how to find a good divorce lawyer.

Introduction

Divorce is rarely a fun or easy process. To ensure the best possible outcome for yourself, you're going to want to find a very good divorce attorney to fight for what you deserve. So what should you be looking for when choosing a lawyer?

Find a Specialist

(Creative Commons photo by Kim Baker)

You're going to need to find a lawyer that specializes in divorce.

Ask for opinions of friends, family, even co-workers. Often the best way to find the attorney that's right for you is by word of mouth. If you know someone personally who has gone through a divorce, you might try asking them about their experience with their lawyer.
There are directories of lawyers available, and the Internet is a prime source. Try looking through a database of lawyers such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
- Don't just pick a name out of a hat when deciding on an attorney. It is important to meet with a lawyer and discuss specifics before you choose to hire them.

Go for Experience

It's probably not in your best interest to pick a lawyer fresh out of school who is working on their first case.

Find a lawyer who has a lot of experience and a good track record in divorce settlements.
Look for lawyers who have graduated from top quality law schools.

Philosophy Matters

Your divorce lawyer experience will be maximized if you share similar values.

The attorney you choose should be prepared to work your case in the style you expect—are you looking to collaborate with your ex on the terms of the divorce and try to avoid court altogether, or do you want to get more cutthroat with the process?
Don't forget that you should probably like your lawyer as a person in addition to as a litigator.