For many people, getting involved in the legal system is one of the messiest, time-consuming, and nerve wracking things that they will ever do. Lawyers can help make the experience a bit easier, but it is crucial to make sure that your lawyer is a good fit for your needs. Here are some of the most important things to consider when you are searching for a lawyer.
Advice
The most important thing that a lawyer does is offer you sound advice. That sometimes means telling you things you really do not want to hear. However, this does not mean that your lawyer is working against you, or taking the other party’s side. They are simply using their experience handling this type of case and applying their knowledge of the law to the facts of your case to give their best advice. Remember, it’s your case, so ultimately you get to decide your case after listening to your lawyer’s advice.
Comfort
It is important that you are totally candid with your lawyer. If you are as open as possible with your lawyer, you can plan ahead to address any potentially sensitive topics. Often your lawyer can think of ways to soften the blow or impact on your case. You don’t want your lawyer to find out something for the first time during trial! Whatever you tell your lawyer is confidential and can’t be disclosed without your agreement, with only a very narrow exception.
Advocacy
Some people assume that when you hire a lawyer, that means you can request they give the other side a hard time. Although every lawyer is required to advocate for their clients as fully as possible, there are different styles of practicing the law. Most lawyers prefer to be a firm and level headed advocate, while others prefer to fight about nearly everything. But fighting about every little thing also causes every one’s bill to end up a lot more. It’s your choice what approach you want to take.
Need Help?
If you think you might need help in your family law case, call 503-850-0811 or email hello@thecommonslawcenter.org to set up an appointment. Our staff attorneys will be happy to help you.