QUESTIONS TO ASK TO FIND THE BEST CHILD CUSTODY LAWYER
When you’re going through a divorce or separation, emotions are running high and it can be a very overwhelming time – for everyone involved. Now, if you and your partner have children going through the process to determine their custody arrangements, then it is going to be even tougher on everyone. Finding the best lawyer for your case and to represent your best interests is the most important thing you can do during this time. How do you find the best child custody lawyer for your case? Here are a few questions you should ask a lawyer before hiring them.
How long have you been practicing law?
Everyone was new to practicing law at one time, but you may not want to trust the custody of your child to someone just starting out. The number of years that a lawyer has been practicing isn’t the only thing you should consider but it is important to make sure they have sufficient experience to give you sound legal advice.
Will it only be you working on my case, or other lawyers too?
Lawyers are busy – we know that – and sometimes they may bring junior lawyers on to your case to help them with the work. If they are going to have other lawyers working on it, you have every right to ask who they are and how much experience they have in working on child custody cases. After all, you came to this lawyer for their experience and not the others in their office – it makes sense you want to know who will be handling your case.
What is your rate, and do you have a retainer?
Talking about money may be uncomfortable for many people but the reality is that you will have to pay your lawyer for their services. You need to know how much this is likely going to cost you, especially if you are anticipating that you will have a lengthy battle ahead of you. Finances are important, even if it’s an uncomfortable question to ask.
How often will you update me on my case?
If you are expecting frequent updates, you won’t want a lawyer who doesn’t communicate on your level. Child custody cases are very sensitive so it’s especially important you have a lawyer who has a communication style that matches yours so you feel comfortable dealing with them.
What do you expect from me (as the client)?
Your lawyer will likely need some types of information from you and to follow up with you on various items. By knowing upfront what your lawyer expects from you, it would help you know if this is a good match.
What can I expect from you (as my attorney)?
By asking this question, you can tell exactly how your lawyer is going to handle your case, how often you will hear from him or her, and other details that are important to you. This is also a time where your lawyer may provide you with possible outcomes for your case, based on the facts they know.
When you’re going through a child custody case, you want the very best lawyer to represent your interests. By asking these questions, and more that are important to you, you can tell if the lawyer is the right one for you.
If you have questions, feel free to book a consultation with our child custody lawyers in Mississauga/GTA at our law firm. With over 10 years of experience, our lawyers can get to know your case and help you through this difficult time while protecting your interests.