What to Look for in a Family Lawyer in Brisbane
Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash
Family lawyers typically represent clients who are seeking to make significant changes in their lives or retain custody of their children. Regardless of the family’s circumstances, this responsibility is substantial.
In the same vein, just as family lawyers face formidable challenges, you, as the client, also have a weighty decision to make: determining which lawyer will best represent you. Each attorney has distinct pros and cons, such as varying experience levels and familiarity with the legal system. Here are key factors to contemplate when selecting a family lawyer:
Your Options
Selecting a family lawyer is akin to the process of selecting a new car or home: it requires some initial exploration. Begin by seeking recommendations from friends, conducting online research, and identifying several lawyers who could potentially represent you in legal proceedings. After narrowing down your options, delve into more extensive research and conduct interviews with each prospective attorney.
Fees
Look for a family law firm that is willing to openly discuss costs with you. Negotiating the retainer is your prerogative, and it’s crucial to have budget discussions before commencing any work. Commercial factors may sometimes influence your decisions, and lack of foresight can result in unfavourable outcomes. The last thing you want is a lawyer who accumulates exorbitant fees and abandons you midway due to depleted funds. Your family lawyer should prioritise your best interests over their fees.
Efficiency
Resolving certain family law conflicts may involve a time commitment. Factors like court schedules are beyond a lawyer’s influence. Nevertheless, collaborate with an attorney who possesses the necessary resources to expedite your case. For instance, if your situation demands expert testimony in childhood development, selecting a lawyer with an established network of experts can streamline the process efficiently.
Request a Referral
Professionals frequently encounter and collaborate with divorce lawyers in their work, often serving as valuable referral contacts. Inquire if they can suggest a well-regarded family lawyer with qualifications and experience that suits your situation. Additionally, reach out to friends or family members who have gone through divorces; ask about their legal representation experiences, seek advice, and inquire if they can recommend a divorce lawyer to assist you.
Find a Level-Headed Lawyer
Your family lawyer needs to remain calm and avoid needlessly provoking your ex-partner. Separations can be contentious, especially when ongoing relationships are maintained, particularly with children in the picture. Inquire with your family lawyer about the FLPA “Best Practice Guidelines for Family Lawyers.” If they appear bewildered, it could signal potential issues.
While there may be instances where a more assertive approach is necessary, it should only be considered after exploring amicable solutions or in response to aggressive behaviour from your ex-partner or their legal representation.
Qualifications and Experience
When choosing a divorce attorney, prioritise selecting one with the necessary legal qualifications, expertise, and skills for the task at hand. If you and your partner aim to settle your disagreement amicably or have already agreed, the optimal attorney is a skilled problem solver who excels in interpersonal relations and negotiation.
It’s important to note that in every family law firm, each family lawyer represents only one party. The duration of a lawyer’s practice and their depth of experience in family law play a vital role in the selection process.
Endnote
When seeking to hire a family lawyer, numerous factors must be considered. The points mentioned above highlight some of the most crucial aspects to remember. In the end, as with many decisions in life, it’s advisable to trust your intuition and instincts.
