One of the most important decision you may face, is choosing a divorce lawyer that is a good listener and willing to spend as much time as necessary at a first consultation to get all of the facts that are relevant to your representation. Because fault is no longer necessary to prove in a no fault divorce, it is extremely necessary to disclose all assets, how they were acquired, and their approximate value. While discussing these facts, you must determine your level of comfort with the lawyer, as to his expertise in divorce matters, trial work, and your feeling of confidence that he or she will return telephone calls promptly, will keep you informed as to the progress of your case through emails, phone calls, or other correspondence.
Without such feeling of confidence and rapport at the conclusion of your consultation, you should look elsewhere. Where you feel you are not being listened to, or the lawyer is short with you, fails to answer questions to your satisfaction, or encourages interruptions by accepting phone calls or permitting others to enter the office and distract him, you know that such conduct will continue throughout your representation and you will feel the lawyer has no personal interest in your case. Beware the lawyer who will promise you a result that sounds too good to be true, because it often is too good to be true. No one can promise a given result because of the many different judges who you may appear before have different bents regarding the division of assets, come from different economic backgrounds, and will reach a decision totally different from some other jurist. Because of these facts, the award of child and spousal support will greatly vary from judge to judge. To guarantee you a result results in your disservice.
Finally, it must be remembered that in trials a lawyer's time in preparation should be at least 90%, and presentation but 10%. The best prepared lawyer usually will win his case. The flamboyant, unprepared lawyer is at a decided disadvantage. Having frequent contacts during your representation, and being comfortable with the lawyer's personality, is also necessary. You should interview at least three attorneys to find the best person to handle your case.
