If you are going through a divorce, trying to work out custody and support issues, planning an adoption or another family law issue, choosing the right lawyer can make a big difference in how smoothly you get through the process and the results. You want a lawyer you can trust, who listens to your needs and moves your case forward until it is resolved.
When you are choosing a family lawyer, look for one who specializes in family law and has experience handling similar cases to yours. You also want to find an attorney who is available to meet with you and answer your questions promptly. In addition, be sure to find out what their fee structure is like and how they bill for their services.
Interpersonal skills
Family lawyers deal with highly emotional and sensitive situations, so they must be able to relate to their clients and build trust and rapport on the fly. They also need to be able to empathize with their clients while still being able to detach themselves from the situation and stay objective. This helps them come up with creative solutions to problems that may arise in a case.
Patience and resilience
Family law cases often involve long, drawn-out disputes that can be very stressful. In addition, they can be extremely expensive to litigate. Having patience and resilience can help family lawyers remain focused on their client’s goals, even when things seem hopeless. They must also be able to manage their own stress, as this can have a negative impact on their clients’ wellbeing and the effectiveness of their representation.
Organizational skills
Family lawyers must be able to organize large amounts of paperwork and documents, both physical and electronic. They also must be able to keep track of deadlines and other important information. In addition, they must be able to handle multiple cases at once, which can be challenging. Having organizational skills can help them avoid mistakes and keep their cases on track.
Legal knowledge
A good family lawyer has a thorough understanding of state and federal laws that apply to family law matters. They should be able to explain these laws in simple terms so that their clients can understand them. They should also be able to identify legal issues that may affect their clients and provide advice on how to resolve them.
Getting referrals from friends and family members is an excellent way to find a good family lawyer. You can also look for attorneys through professional organizations, such as the American Bar Association’s Family Law Section. You can also attend family law events and conferences to learn more about the field and meet other family law professionals. You can even volunteer or intern at a family law firm to gain hands-on experience in this area of practice.