How to Find a Child Custody Lawyer

When a couple with children opts for divorce as the best way out of their never ending marital disputes, they will each need a good divorce attorney to represent them during the court proceedings. However, in addition to that, they will also require the services of competent child custody attorney because there are important things relating to their children that will have to be discussed and agreed upon. There are a few important things you want to look for in a child custody lawyer if you intend to succeed.

Experience: You need to know about the schooling as well as the experience of the attorney you are considering hiring. Get information such as how many similar cases they have won and lost and why the lost those cases that they did. Even though lawyers are not allowed to discuss any information about their former clients and the merits of their cases, you can ask them to discuss some basics without really having to divulge names and specific case details.

Research: You want to research about at least three different child custody attorneys who are really specialized in these cases so you can make comparisons. Even though most of them provide free consultation services, you should not get blinded by that fact alone to make you decision. Take enough time to interview all the prospects you have whether you are paying an initial consultation fee or not.

Appointment: Once you are through with your research, the next thing you will do is to set appointment dates and times for all of them. Always prepare a written list of questions you are going to ask every one of them. Your questions are going to cover important areas such as their professionalism as well as any other areas that may be of particular concern regarding you individual case. Most child custody attorneys will not offer legal advice during the consultation but you will expect them to inform you regarding all your legal rights and what the standing of your case generally is.

Expertise: When you are doing the initial consultation with your prospective attorney, you want to make sure that you discuss particular special circumstances that could strengthen your case. Think about issues such as drug and alcohol abuse, marital violence or if there is a history of physical or mental illnesses. This is important information that ensures your prospective attorney is informed and they will be able to expertly gauge the strength and the merits of your case. You want to especially confirm that the lawyer has the competence and expertise to deal with any such complications regarding your case.

Specialization: Last but not least, get a child custody attorney who is not simply specialized in matters of litigation but settlement as well; these are important skills during court proceedings.