Lawyer Up: A Guide to Hiring a Family Lawyer
Family issues are inevitable. There are issues that can be solved within the household while there are those that require court actions.
Hiring a lawyer right away can ruin the possibility of retaining good relationships within the family, thus deciding to hire a lawyer is a difficult choice to make. On the other hand, sensitive issues such as property settlement, divorce, child custody, and abuse require the protection of the law. Advice from a good lawyer can make a big difference in managing these family disputes. A family lawyer can serve as a negotiator by providing legal documents for settlement. But if by any chance, negotiation fails and the issue turned into a lawsuit, a lawyer can still represent you in court.
It’s important to note that not all family lawyers are experienced in all family issues. Some specialize in divorce while others are more inclined on cases that involve women and children. In Washington, there are 26, 182 active attorneys according to the American Bar Association. You will surely find a family attorney in all cities from Lynnwood to Aberdeen.
Here’s a list of areas that require your attention before you choose a lawyer who is suitable for your case:
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Finances
Can you afford a lawyer? There are lawyers who work on pro bono cases. Chances are, they are handling one too many cases already. Consider the possibility that you might need to hire a private lawyer. Before you do, ask about the anticipated costs upfront. If your financial resources aren’t enough, do not take that as an opportunity to give up. You have the option to request for a free legal aid or low-cost representation through the family court based on your monthly income.
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The Case
Bringing an issue to court can be tedious, but in the end, it’s bound to be worth the trouble. It’s difficult to deduce what will go through a family law proceeding or how it will end. Despite that, a family lawyer will provide you with advice if the case is strong enough to be brought to court. Your lawyer should be there in every step, from drafting the documents to filing the lawsuit. The outcome of your case is not definite. The result may or may not be ideal for you, but one thing’s for certain: your lawyer is bound by the law to provide you and the court with the information needed to win the case.
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Lawyer’s Reputation
The outcome of the case will surely change your life. This is why it’s important to consider the lawyer’s reputation before choosing who will represent you. Ask for references and see if the lawyer has handled cases similar to yours. Delve into the lawyer’s experience. Choose one who has a winning streak. It is your right to ask a lawyer about his or her step-by-step strategy in handling your case.
Issues that involve the family are heavier to handle emotionally and mentally. Having a lawyer on your side as legal support can make the fight more bearable, especially if the other party has already hired their own. The last thing you want is to enter into a negotiation against a person who is well-versed in the law. A lawyer will surely strengthen your chance in winning a legal battle.
