Hiring the right divorce attorney can make or break your case. To ensure you choose the best legal advocate—and understand what to expect—here are the key questions to ask during your consultation.
1. “What is your experience with divorce cases like mine?”
Ask about their track record with:
Child custody disputes
High-asset divorces (if applicable)
Contested vs. uncontested cases
2. “How do you charge for your services?”
Hourly rate vs. flat fee
Retainer costs (upfront deposit)
Additional expenses (court fees, experts)
3. “What strategy would you recommend for my case?”
Will they push for settlement, mediation, or litigation?
How do they handle high-conflict divorces?
4. “How long do you expect my divorce to take?”
Factors affecting timeline:
State laws & waiting periods
Complexity of assets
Spouse’s cooperation
5. “How will we communicate during the process?”
Preferred method (email, calls, in-person)
Response time expectations
Who else on their team will handle your case?
6. “What are the possible outcomes in my situation?”
Realistic expectations on:
Alimony
Child custody & support
Property division
7. “How can I keep costs under control?”
Tips to avoid unnecessary legal fees
Alternatives like mediation or collaborative divorce
8. “What should I avoid doing during my divorce?”
Common mistakes like:
Posting on social media
Hiding assets
Badmouthing your ex in front of kids
9. “Have you handled cases with my spouse’s attorney before?”
Familiarity with the opposing counsel can influence strategy.
10. “What happens if my spouse refuses to cooperate?”
Backup plans for enforcing orders or going to trial
Bonus: Trust Your Gut
Do you feel heard and respected?
Are their answers clear and confident?
Do they seem invested in your best outcome?
The right lawyer won’t just answer questions—they’ll prepare you for what’s ahead.
