If you’ve been served with divorce papers or you’ve decided to end your marriage, you need to work with an experienced family law lawyer in Tampa, FL. Meeting with an attorney can be an intimidating experience, though.
Knowing what to discuss in advance can put you at ease, especially during your first meeting. Here are five questions to ask your family law lawyer in Tampa, FL.
1. What experience do you have with divorce cases?
It’s important that any attorney you consider hiring have experience dealing with cases like yours. This is especially true if your divorce is complicated or you have an unusual situation.
2. What are the likely outcomes of my case?
Obviously, your marriage will end, but what that looks like varies from family to family. A family law lawyer in Tampa, FL can help you understand what to expect in terms of a divorce settlement, including financial issues and custody of your children.
3. What are the potential risks and challenges associated with my case?
Every legal situation, including divorces, come with risks. Understanding these risks and anticipating how to deal with them can go a long way in keeping the process smooth.
4. How much will your services cost me?
Most lawyers are able to estimate the approximate costs of handling your case. Every case is different and most lawyers charge by the hour. There are divorce attorneys that charge a flat-fee, but this can limit their ability to deal with complex cases.
5. What are your thoughts on mediation or collaborative divorce?
In many cases, your divorce will be settled outside of the courtroom. The courts tend to get involved only when couples cannot reach an agreement on their own. Ask your family law lawyer in Tampa, FL about how to make the transition from marriage to divorce as smooth as possible.
