Divorce is never an easy process for anyone involved. If you are a woman going through this difficult time, you want an advocate on your side who understands your needs and who will fight diligently for your rights. The following advice can help you connect with an expert, empathetic divorce attorney for women.
5 Tips for Finding a Divorce Attorney for Women
1. Explore Options
While you do not legally need an attorney for a divorce, good legal counsel is invaluable for ensuring you receive a rightful settlement, for taking care of cumbersome paperwork, and for lifting some of the emotional burden of the process. A great starting point for an attorney search is to seek referrals. Talk to individuals who have been through divorce not only as a source of support but as a means of potentially getting in touch with qualified counsel.
Aside from personal referrals, you can find divorce attorneys in your area via phone directories or online searches. An online search would include relevant terms like Columbus, OH divorce attorneys for women. In addition, you may search for individual reviews on attorneys of interest or explore an attorney review site that will contain experiences from previous clients. It’s also good practice to check with your state’s bar association to make sure your potential choice is fully licensed and accredited.
2. Ensure Expertise
Most attorneys will tout their backgrounds on a website and perhaps through other online resources. Perusing this information can help you check off important boxes for finding a great attorney. You will likely want someone with a strong history of practice in family law, for one. These individuals are well-versed in addressing issues common with divorce proceedings, such as child custody, alimony, and property and asset distribution.
You might be looking for an attorney who specializes in specific types of cases. As an example, if your divorce involves issues of domestic violence, attorneys are available who exclusively represent battered spouses. Niche attorneys have the experience and the mindset to navigate especially challenging and trying cases. As another consideration, check how long the attorney has practiced in your state, as each state has different guidelines associated with divorce, custody, and similar matters.
3. Consider Compatibility
Studies suggest that women value having an attorney with whom they feel comfortable. Naturally, many females forge a stronger connection with other women. A female divorce lawyer therefore might be the best option for you. These attorneys may better understand the many roles you juggle as wife, mother, and employee or employer. As a result, they may be more empathetic to your perspective and may thus be able to fight more passionately on your behalf.
The above in no way indicates that you could not find a comfortable and effective fit if you choose a male attorney. You should also evaluate your own personality and perhaps seek someone who shares your values and your traits. If you believe mediation is possible and desirable, for instance, you might feel better with a calm negotiator on your side. If, however, you anticipate a more volatile situation, you could consider a fiercer advocate.
4. Seek Comprehensive Services
Divorce is more than a legal matter. It can impact multiple aspects of your life, from your finances to your mental health. A good divorce attorney recognizes these multi-layered challenges and will work to build a strong support network accessible to you. Attorneys for women can recommend counselors, financial advisors, childcare workers, and other relevant professionals who can assist you in rebuilding your life post-divorce.
Further, qualified attorneys working with and for women also appreciate that divorce is often not a short-term problem with a closed solution. Look into how involved the attorney is with the case. A high level of personal involvement likely indicates that the professional will be available for follow-up services if the need should arise, such as a revisitation of alimony or child custody.
5. Schedule a Consultation
The consultation offers you an opportunity to get to know your prospective attorney and ask relevant questions. Many attorneys offer consultations at little or no cost to you. For example, you can inquire about specific billing practices and get an estimate of how much time your case will take. This meeting also enables you to get into the specifics of your case and how these factors might affect the outcome.
Perhaps most importantly, you will benefit from that crucial face-to-face interaction. You’ll desire someone by your side that you trust, that is competent, and that exhibits transparency and compassion. A personal meeting will best aid you in finding these characteristics. Trust your instincts.
You want to make informed decisions as you transition into the next chapter of your life. The right attorney can be your loyal, patient guide on this journey. Armed with this information, you should feel more confident in finding an advocate who is qualified, respected, and who will understand your case and put you first.
