5 Must-Ask Questions to Help You Pick the Right Indiana Divorce Attorney

Divorce is never easy. It’s emotional, stressful, and confusing. But one thing that can ease the process is having a skilled Indiana divorce attorney by your side. The trick, however, is finding the right one. After all, this is a person you’ll be sharing intimate details of your life with. So, what questions should you ask to make sure you’re making the right choice? Here’s your guide.

What’s Your Legal Experience and Expertise?

The law is a vast field. Lawyers can specialize in anything from criminal law to estate planning. But you’re going through a divorce—you need someone who knows family law like the back of their hand. Ask them how many years they’ve been practicing, specifically in divorce cases.

Also, inquire if they are familiar with the family court judges in your area. That could offer some insight into how the attorney might handle your case. For example, an attorney who has experience dealing with more conservative judges may adopt a different strategy than one used by more liberal judges.

What’s Your Approach to Divorce?

There’s more than one way to get divorced. Some folks opt for mediation to keep things amicable. Others go to court to battle it out. Both approaches are valid, but it’s crucial your attorney’s style aligns with your own.

Are they more inclined toward peaceful negotiations, or do they enjoy courtroom confrontations? It’s not about which is better; it’s about what suits your situation. If you and your soon-to-be-ex are still on speaking terms, a settlement-oriented attorney could make the process smoother. But if there’s a lot of bad blood, you might need someone who’s ready to fight tooth and nail in court.

How’s Your Communication and Availability?

Picture this: You’ve got urgent questions about your case, but your attorney is MIA. Frustrating, right? Ask your potential Indiana divorce attorney about their policy for returning phone calls and emails. Make sure it aligns with your own expectations. Do they promise to get back within 24 hours? Can you reach them in case of emergencies?

Also, check how packed their schedule is. An overbooked attorney might not give your case the attention it deserves, which could lead to delays or unfavorable outcomes.

What About Fees and Billing?

It’s hard enough to talk about money with people you’re close to, let alone a stranger. But this is a crucial part of the selection process. Lawyers aren’t cheap, and divorce proceedings can be lengthy. Some attorneys offer a sliding scale based on your income, while others might have a flat fee for specific services like filing for divorce.

Whatever the case, make sure you get a detailed estimate, including hourly rates, retainer fees, and any extra costs like court filing fees. That way, you won’t be blindsided by unexpected expenses down the line.

Can I Talk to Some Client References?

Client reviews can be golden nuggets of information. If possible, ask for references from previous clients who have had similar divorce cases. Reach out to these references to get an inside scoop on what it’s like to work with that attorney. Did they feel listened to? Was the attorney punctual? Did they feel like the attorney fought hard for their interests?

Getting firsthand feedback can give you a more rounded view of the attorney, helping you make an informed decision.

Final Thoughts

Choosing an Indiana divorce attorney is like picking a life vest for a turbulent sea journey—you need something reliable that you can count on to keep you afloat. Use these questions as your guiding light. They’ll steer you toward an attorney who not only knows their stuff but also aligns with your needs and expectations.

And remember, divorce is a significant life event. Make sure the person helping you navigate it is someone you can trust and feel comfortable with. Choose wisely!