We meet with prospective clients all the time who are shopping for a lawyer. They aren’t sure which lawyer to choose and they’re meeting with a handful of attorneys in an effort to pick the right person.
Consultations
These consultations usually aren’t free – they’re expensive. Shopping for a lawyer isn’t like shopping for tires. You’re going to spend some money just deciding where to spend your money.
Unfortunately, picking the right lawyer can be an expensive proposition.
While you’re going to pay for each of these meetings, it’s usually a smart move.
You want to be sure you pick the right attorney for you. There’s quite a bit at stake and a mistake can cost you plenty. Think about it – when you deal with your divorce, you’re dealing will all of your assets, all of your debts plus the future of your children. This is not a quick and easy decision.
So, how many lawyers should you talk to before you pick one?
I’d suggest that you talk to three. Sit down with all of them and tell your story. Then listen and see what they have to say. Listen to their plan for your case. Listen to their approach to achieving resolution. Think about how you feel about what it is that they have to say.
You’ll be shocked at how much of a difference you find between the three lawyers. There are as many different approaches to family law as there are lawyers. You’re going to hear some very different things from each attorney.
Once you’ve interviewed all three attorneys take a break. Don’t make a quick decision. When you decide quickly you tend to hire the last lawyer you interviewed. When you give it some time you’ll be more likely to pick someone that better meets your overall needs. There’s no reason to hurry in most cases. It took you a long time to get to this point and a few more days won’t hurt your situation. Be sure you give the decision careful thought.
Shopping for lawyers isn’t nearly as much fun as shopping for clothes or electronics. It is, however, more important that you make a good decision. Good luck and good shopping.
