What to Look for in a Family Law Attorney

Choosing the right family law attorney is a very important, and oftentimes difficult decision. Family law cases like divorce, child custody or support can be stressful because the decisions reached in these cases not only affect you in the short term, but possibly for years to come or the rest of your life.

People often contact us asking what they should look for in a family law attorney. Most importantly, we recommend someone that focuses solely on family law. Many "general practitioners" are not prepared to handle the intricacies of a difficult or complicated divorce or other family-law related issue. In other words, unless you and your ex have agreed on EVERY issue, the attorney will probably be in over their head.

Knowledge of family law and experience are also very important. A seasoned family lawyer will be familiar with Illinois family law, its trends and will be prepared to handle any problem or crisis that may arise in your case.

You want a family lawyer that has experience in the county where your case is filed. It is extremely helpful if your attorney appears frequently in the county where your case will be filed. This ensures that your attorney is familiar with the Judges, including their temperament, nuances, manner and track record on certain issues. When two people can’t agree the Judge will decide. All things being equal they tend to go with the lawyers that they like.

A good family lawyer is candid about your chances in obtaining an outcome on a particular issue. An attorney that will do everything the client tells them to do will get a reputation for asking for frivolous things or taking positions that the lawyer knows the court will not adopt. These actions for other people reflect badly on them and their other clients. It is important for your family lawyer to have credibility with the Judge and other lawyers.

That being said, the lawyer must be a zealous champion of your interests, meaning he or she will help you see the big picture and even bring up things you may not have yet considered. You are the customer and your family lawyer should always treat you with respect and courtesy. Your family lawyer should promptly return your phone calls, answer your questions, and keep you informed of all major developments and issues. They should help you become goal focused and work for you to achieve all of your realistic goals.

A good family lawyer will give the client a preliminary estimate of what the costs associated with the case will be. The client should ask the lawyer what other costs will be involved, such as hiring a private investigator or tax expert, in order to avoid sticker shock and wasted time spent arguing back and forth over unexpected costs.

The process of a divorce and family law related issues is often time consuming and emotionally draining. If you are not comfortable with your attorney, keep looking. This may be a constant source of additional stress to you. That is why we recommend that you contact us with any questions you may have about finding the right family lawyer for you. All inquiries are free and confidential. The attorneys we recommend aren’t free, but they are experienced, honest and the same law firms we’d hire if we were in your shoes.