Choosing from the top divorce lawyers in Atlanta, GA is one of the most crucial steps you will take toward resolving your separation. Having the right attorney on your side can make or break your case. However, it’s not always easy to tell when you’ve found the right match or if you need to keep looking. Looking for an attorney with these qualities can help you make up your mind.
7 Qualities of the Top Divorce Lawyers in the Industry
1. Expertise
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In order to become one of the top divorce lawyers in Atlanta, GA, your attorney needs to have many years of expertise under their belt. Family law is a big area of study, but success with previous divorce cases is a big plus. An attorney who has a long track record in your area is probably familiar with how cases get resolved and can tell you what to expect throughout the process.
Most divorce attorneys offer free or low-cost separation consultation where you can ask them about their experience and track record working on divorces. Make sure you take notes and get a feel for how they prioritize cases so you know you’re getting the best teammate in your divorce.
2. Communication and Availability
An unfortunate part of dealing with the legal system is that things seem to move very slowly. If you’re having trouble getting answers out of your attorney, that’s a bad sign. Missed callbacks, unsent emails, or just general unavailability is a sign that you haven’t found the right lawyer for you. You will undoubtedly have many questions throughout the process, and you will want to know what parts of your case will play in your favor. Your attorney should be able to give you valuable guidance to avoid any mishaps before an agreement is reached.
3. Local Resources in Atlanta, GA
A savvy divorce attorney knows that their client needs support during this difficult time. Whether you need help finding housing, childcare, or financial support in other ways, your attorney should be able to point you in the right direction. They should also have access to local non-profits or groups that help single parents or offer emotional support groups for parents and children. Helping you get the resources you need will be key to proving that you are capable of moving forward with your life.
4. Patience and Understanding
Divorces are difficult and emotional for the parties involved. A good divorce lawyer will know how to be receptive to these emotions and make sure that you feel heard and understood. No matter what caused your divorce, you want a top-rated divorce lawyer in Atlanta, GA who gives you the reassurances you need. That said, you also want your attorney to be realistic with you about expectations.
If your attorney feels that you are demanding too much from the other party, they need to be able to talk to you about what is reasonable and why. They know the law, but they also know the judges and the rules of thumb that are commonly followed to reach a settlement. If an attorney is promising you everything you’ve ever wanted, it might be too good to be true.
5. Negotiating Skills
While most attorneys are capable of taking your case all the way to court, the vast majority of divorces are actually settled outside the courtroom. Reaching a favorable settlement for both parties often involves negotiating with another attorney and finding common ground, even if you and your ex don’t see eye-to-eye. Knowing when to keep fighting and when to settle is a huge asset for you and your wallet. Whenever possible, you should seek to reach an agreement without involving a judge.
6. Passion
When it comes to fighting for your family and your future, you need an attorney with a passion for helping people live their best lives. There are plenty of attorneys out there offering to take up your case, but only a handful of them will be truly invested in seeing that you end up with a positive resolution. Even when things aren’t easy, you want an attorney who can get creative and put their problem-solving skills to work to reach an agreement that works for you.
If you feel that your attorney is disinterested, or merely shuffling papers around without making any headway on your case, it’s time to call in someone new who can give you the support you need.
When you’re ready to move forward with your divorce and your life, you need a quality divorce lawyer on your side. Don’t wait to start meeting with lawyers in your area and getting to know the system. You’ll know you’ve found the right one when they offer you a combination of expertise, compassion, and commitment to you and your family.
