How to Know You’ve Hired the Right Divorce Attorney in Connecticut

Attorney and client in office

Many things can contribute to whether you have a positive or negative divorce experience.

How you work together with your ex-spouse is one of the main factors, but you may also be surprised to learn that the divorce attorney you choose to guide the way can also contribute.

If you’re curious about whether you’ve hired the right person for the job, here are some of the signs that point to that being the case:

They Explain the Divorce Process Clearly

No matter how many useful divorce FAQs you read on the websites of reputable divorce attorneys, there’s nothing quite like hearing information from the experts in person.

The best divorce attorneys in Connecticut and elsewhere in the United States will explain the divorce process clearly so you can proceed with confidence.

In most situations, a simple timeline looks like this:

  1. File for divorce by completing a divorce complaint
  2. File a Summons with the State of Connecticut Superior Court
  3. Pay a filing fee
  4. The case is opened, and the formal Superior Court process begins
  5. Create a case management agreement and have it approved by both parties and the court
  6. Gather evidence
  7. Negotiate an agreement
  8. Attend a final hearing held by the court
  9. Officially divorce

If negotiations fail and there’s no final hearing to confirm an official divorce, a contested hearing will be held for a judge to reach a decision.

Great Communicators

For many people, a divorce is one of the most stressful things they will ever endure.

You may have many questions about the process and are unsure of how to obtain the necessary information.

The best divorce lawyer is a timely communicator.

They answer your calls, respond to your emails, and do their best to answer any questions you have.

Most importantly, they explain the legal procedures so you understand your options and how to proceed at each step of the divorce process.

Local Experts

Divorce looks different in every state.

There can be varying waiting periods before divorces can be finalized, and some states are known as no-fault states, while others are fault-based.

The best divorce lawyer is a local one, as they understand the rules, regulations, and laws specific to your state for your peace of mind.

It also helps when they are familiar with local court procedures and know the judges.

Transparent Fee Structures

Every couple knows that going through a divorce will cost money, but they don’t necessarily know the exact amount.

Reputable divorce attorneys won’t hide this information from you.

Instead, they will provide a detailed explanation of their fees, such as whether they charge hourly rates and retainers.

They will also advise of additional costs, such as printing and administration.

Most respected lawyers strive to ensure there are no surprises at the end of the divorce process.

Personalized Service

While the divorce process can be reasonably standardized, that doesn’t mean every divorce and relationship is the same.

As a result, attorneys must provide personalized service.

The best divorce attorneys take the time to get to know you, your family, and your goals.

They then develop a tailored legal strategy that best suits your situation.

They Are Realistic and Don’t Make Promises

There are no guarantees in the legal world, and divorces are no exception to the rule.

Professional divorce lawyers won’t guarantee the outcome of your case or make any promises.

Instead, they provide a realistic assessment of your situation and a range of potential outcomes based on their years of experience.

How to Know the Attorney You’ve Chosen Isn’t Right

There are many great attorneys in Connecticut and throughout the United States.

However, someone having a law degree doesn’t automatically mean they will be the best lawyer for your needs.

It might be time to find a new one if you notice the following behaviours:

  • Vague about fees
  • They don’t answer your calls or emails
  • Difficult to get in contact with
  • Unrealistic promises
  • Unprofessional behaviors like disrespect and arrogance
  • Unfamiliar with the laws in your local area
  • They don’t take the time to get to know your unique situation

Hiring the right divorce attorney in Connecticut can make all the difference in your upcoming divorce.

Take note of these signs above to determine whether you’ve hired the best attorney to help guide you through the process from start to finish.

Chelsea Wilson
Chelsea Wilson is the Community Relations Manager for Washington University School of Law’s distance learning LLM degree program, which provides foreign trained attorneys with the opportunity to earn a Master of Laws degree from a top-tier American university from anywhere in the world.

Leave a Reply

Disclaimer: The content provided on this website is intended for informational purposes only.