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Finding a good divorce attorney in Maryland. According to research, the average cost of a divorce in the US is about $15,000 to $20,000. If you have significant assets or a complex financial situation, the cost can be much higher. And if you have children, the costs can spiral even further upward as you try to negotiate custody arrangements. With such expenses, you need to ensure that you’re getting the very best representation you possibly can. Cue in a professional divorce attorney!
Now the tricky part comes in locating the most competent divorce attorney in Maryland. One that has your best interest at heart and will fight tooth and nail to get you the best possible outcome for your divorce. Here are some tips on how to go about finding the right divorce attorney in Maryland and why you should consider Divorce With a Plan.
Find an Attorney You Can Work With
Your lawyer will be with you throughout the case. There will come a timer when you may have to confide sensitive information to them, so it’s important that you find an attorney you can work with. When meeting with potential lawyers, pay attention to how they make you feel. Are they respectful? Do they make you feel comfortable?
If you don’t feel comfortable sharing important information with your lawyer, it will hamper their ability to represent you properly. You should also be able to communicate effectively with your attorney. If you feel like your lawyer is not listening to you or is not responding to your calls and emails promptly, it may be time to find someone new.
Ask About the Attorney’s Fee Structure
When you meet with an attorney, ask about their fee structure. Some attorneys charge by the hour, while others charge a flat rate for certain services. Some law firms also provide contingency fees, meaning they only receive payment if you win your case.
Be sure to ask how the attorney plans to bill you and how frequently. Also, find out if there are any additional costs, such as court fees or expert witness fees. Usually, these expenses can spiral and add up and then surprise you later on if you’re not initially aware of them.
Confirm They Have Enough Experience to Handle Your Case
You need to be sure that the lawyer you hire has significant experience handling cases like yours in the Maryland court system. Some attorneys may have a general family law practice, while others focus their practices on divorce or custody cases.
Some attorneys may claim they’re experts in a particular area of family law, but that doesn’t mean they have the experience to back up that claim. Make sure to ask each attorney how much of their practice focuses on cases like yours and how many similar cases they’ve handled before.
Consider the Attorney’s Reputation Within the Legal Community
When you’re meeting with a potential lawyer, ask them about their experience in the Maryland legal community. How long have they been practicing law? Are they active in any local or state bar associations? Do they teach continuing legal education courses to other lawyers? Are they considered a “Super Lawyer”, or have they received any other awards?
These indicators show that the lawyer is well-respected by their peers and stays up-to-date with the latest changes in the law. While an attorney’s reputation doesn’t guarantee success in your case, it’s a good indicator that the lawyer is competent and respected by other lawyers and judges.
Moreover, check an attorney’s background through the state bar website. Each state has a bar association that licenses and disciplines attorneys. The website will show you if an attorney is currently licensed to practice law in the state and will inform you about any disciplinary actions they might have.
Determine If the Attorney Is Available to Handle Your Case
Some attorneys may have several cases going on at once. Others may be out of the office frequently for court hearings or conferences. Find out how much time the attorney will have to dedicate to your case and whether they have the staff to handle the administrative aspects of your case while the attorney is focusing on the legal aspects.
Are They Skilled Enough to Take Your Case to Court?
In many family law cases, the attorneys never set foot in a courtroom. The majority of these cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement. However, some cases do need to go to trial. You’ll want an attorney who has courtroom experience and a strong track record of success if your case goes to trial.
Some attorneys may be afraid to go to trial, while others may not have the necessary skills. Be sure to ask each attorney about their experience in the courtroom and whether they’re comfortable taking your case to trial if necessary.
Inquire About Potential Outcomes
Be cautious of any attorney who promises a specific outcome for your case. An experienced divorce lawyer can give you an idea of how a judge may rule, but no one can predict the future with complete certainty.
The best attorneys will be truthful about what they think might happen. They will help you plan different strategies based on your case’s direction. Be cautious of any attorney who promises a guaranteed outcome.
A Comprehensive Guide to Finding the Best Divorce Attorney
When you’re going through a Maryland divorce or child custody case, you want an experienced, knowledgeable, and skilled divorce attorney in Maryland. You also want an attorney who is dedicated to your case and who will fight for your rights. Contact Divorce With a Plan to schedule an initial consultation with one of our Maryland divorce attorneys.
Divorce With a Plan has strong experience in family law. We understand the challenges you’re going through. Our divorce lawyers are licensed in Maryland and have a deep understanding of the state’s family laws. We will passionately defend your interests, both in and out of court.