What Every Attorney Wishes Their Clients Knew About Divorces

As if your relationship ending was not hard enough, many find divorce proceedings to be even more confusing and complicated. Whether your divorce is being handled inside the courtroom or in mediation, divorces can be a costly legal matter, and most are not prepared with the knowledge to navigate the tumultuous waters. But, with the right preparation and knowledge divorce proceedings can be easier and better for individuals involved.

You’re hiring an attorney not a therapist

When going through a divorce, typically emotions are running high and often those feelings can complicate the divorce proceedings. It is important for clients to remember that their attorney is not their therapist. They have not received the proper training and education to assist you in working through your emotions attached to your divorce. It is vital to remember that you are hiring your attorney to assist in the legal proceedings attached to your divorce, nothing more and nothing less.

Be organized

It is also important to remember that legal proceedings can be expensive. Being organized can assist in keeping your costs lower. Basic steps like having all your documentation sorted in chronological order and labeled will save you and your attorney time. Remember, time is money. Some lawyers even suggest typing a summary of all the documentation you are providing. Be prepared.

Preparation is key

As with anything in life, preparation is key. Your attorney will provide you with the information on what is required and when. If you are not prepared for these dates and times with the appropriate documentation, you again will be wasting your time and your attorney’s time.

Honesty is the best policy

When you hire an attorney, you are hiring a teammate. To do their jobs well and right, attorneys need to know all the facts associated with your case. Don’t omit important details. Don’t exaggerate circumstances. Don’t belittle or minimize anything. Attorneys are best suited to deliver the outcome you desire when there are no surprises or lies.

You don’t know what you don’t know

You are hiring an attorney for their knowledge, their expertise and their credentials. They went to law school; chances are you did not. Never be afraid to admit when you don’t know something. It is vitally important for you and your attorney to be on the same page. Be open and honest with them about things you do not know.

Be upfront

Attorneys want to know what you want out of your divorce. Delivering what you want equates success for your lawyer and they want to be successful for you. Are there certain things you want? Property? Custody? Finances? Be upfront about everything you are wanting and not wanting from your divorce.

Going through a divorce can be a painful, expensive journey. But hiring the right attorney and handling your legal matter in an honest, upfront manner, putting your best foot forward can ease the pain of your proceedings.