Knowledge & Experience When You Need It Most

What to ask a divorce lawyer before signing a retainer

On Behalf of | Jan 5, 2024 | Divorce

Divorce is often financially and emotionally exhausting. This is because dissolving a marriage involves dividing debts and assets, as well as dealing with child custody. An attorney can help a person in Texas approach the divorce process with careful, strategic planning to increase his or her chances of achieving a personally favorable outcome. Here are a couple of important questions that people planning to get divorced may want to ask a potential attorney.  

Question about uncontested divorces 

Individuals exploring divorce may want to ask their prospective attorneys about the possibility of completing uncontested divorces, where both spouses agree on every aspect of their divorce. These aspects range from child support to asset distribution and child custody. Uncontested divorces usually require less money and time and lead to less conflict than contested divorces, where the spouses cannot find common ground. 

Question about the divorce process length 

Another important question to ask a prospective attorney is how long the divorce proceeding will take. The answer will depend on how well the two spouses can cooperate and how complex the case is. Receiving a realistic timeline estimate can help a person manage his or her expectations and plan his or her schedule for attorney meetings accordingly. 

Question about divorce rights 

A family law attorney in Texas can also answer an individual’s question about his or her obligations and rights during a divorce proceeding, including the right to equal marital assets and debt distribution. The attorney can furthermore help the individual pursue spousal support if necessary and explore which party may pay child support to the other parent based on the state’s guidelines or what they negotiate. The attorney will strive to ensure his or her client’s rights and best interests are protected during each phase of the divorce proceeding.