Dealing with the end of a marriage can feel much like a loved one has passed. You’ll go through a range of emotions and likely need to rethink the rest of your life. On top of this is the task of finding a women’s divorce lawyer, which can seem daunting indeed when you have so many other worries. But the person you pick will represent you for many weeks or months to come, making it imperative that you choose wisely.
7 Things to Look for in a Women’s Divorce Lawyer
1. Composure
By composure, we mean the ability to stay calm under pressure. Your attorney needs to be focused when speaking to you, your spouse’s attorney, and the court. This translates to self-control, meaning you should look for a women’s divorce lawyer who will advocate for your interests but not take it personally when things do not go according to plan.
Surprises can and do happen in divorce proceedings. The court may make an unexpected ruling, or your spouse may make an unforeseen move. Your attorney must, in turn, be able and willing to adjust their strategy. This requires that they keep a cool head at all times, even when you’re feeling frustrated and angry.
2. Availability
In your search for aggressive divorce lawyers for women in Atlanta, GA, you need a professional who will be available at key points in your case. If they’re not specifically available, they need to have support staff who can handle any issues that arise.
This is not to say an attorney must be ready to help at the drop of a hat, but that they should be able to respond in a timely manner – and provide a window within which you can expect an answer. You won’t be your attorney’s only client, but neither should you be lost in a sea of other people.
3. Knowledge and Experience
Nearly any attorney can represent you, but you need one who can represent you well. The difference is in a professional who has extensive knowledge and experience. Your divorce will likely impact all aspects of your life, including your finances, family, and living arrangements. Your attorney must be able to deal with such complexities and help you move forward with your life.
We recommend you seek an attorney experienced in family law cases similar to yours. To illustrate, if you’re dealing with a significant net worth or a difficult custody battle, your lawyer should be knowledgeable in these specific areas. Check their credentials, ask for referrals, and read online reviews from previous clients (if available). These proactive steps will help you understand the attorney you’ve chosen.
4. Strong Communication Skills
Throughout the divorce case, you will need to effectively voice your expectations and concerns to your lawyer. As for your lawyer, they must clearly explain legal terms and procedures in a way that’s easy to understand. They will also need to provide you with realistic expectations. Any lawyer who does not take the time to listen or cannot speak in layman’s terms is inadvertently saying you need to continue your search.
It may seem counter-intuitive, but your attorney also needs to communicate well with your spouse and their attorney. Strong, positive discussions between the attorneys can help keep costs down and lead to fruitful negotiations. An experienced attorney will keep this in mind and try to resolve some of your most important issues before heading straight to court.
In the Courtroom
If your case does go to court, your attorney must have the skill to litigate passionately on your behalf. They must also speak to the court in a clear, concise manner. Your future, from the assets to the custody arrangements you receive, depends on your lawyer’s vocal capabilities.
5. Professionalism
Law is a field that demands the utmost professionalism. Marks of this trait include correctly completing and filing paperwork, arriving on time for meetings, and successfully managing deadlines. In short, your lawyer should conduct themselves in a polished and proficient manner at all times, and without using drama or foul language to achieve their means. This will serve you well both in and out of the courtroom.
6. Empathy
Life is full of ups and downs, but divorce is often one of the most painful experiences to get through. For this reason, you need an empathetic attorney who understands the emotional roller coaster you’re on.
Empathy allows your lawyer to see past the anger and grief and bring your case to a successful resolution. A sensitive attorney can also help you transition from being part of a couple with social, financial, and emotional security to being single and self-reliant.
7. Confidence
Divorce cases can be rigorous and high-pressure. The best way your attorney can overcome both is with confidence. Their self-assurance (not arrogance) will impose a positive impression on the court and help you feel better about your situation.
Finding a divorce lawyer you feel comfortable with, and who possesses composure, experience, and professionalism, can take a little time. Your search will be rewarded, however, once your divorce is finalized and you’ve taken the first step in your new life.
