As a family law practitioner, my clients are going through some of the most challenging times of their lives.
Most are dealing with custody issues and financial woes, whether a custody dispute or divorce. That’s why I prioritize giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your legal rights and how we can navigate the legalities so that you can move forward in your life with the outcome you need.
If you are meeting with a family law attorney for the first time, here are some things that you should expect and should think about before your initial meeting:
1. As skilled attorneys, it is our job to talk you through your legal situations and ensure you find the right fit.
Your first time talking with an attorney will be the initial consultation. The consultation is the time for you to “interview” the attorney you are considering hiring. In addition to wanting an attorney who will advocate for you, you also should make sure your attorney will listen to your requests, that you feel comfortable working with them and disclosing personal information, and that you can listen to your attorney’s advice. You will know from the consultation if the attorney is the right fit for your case.
2. Your attorney will ask you about some of the most intimate details of your personal life and finances and needs to know the facts of your case, including the good and bad behavior you have displayed, said, and things you have done.
Although it may seem embarrassing or something you aren’t proud of, it is better to tell your attorney everything so that you can get legal advice on how to address the situation moving forward and protect yourself than to hide from it and have it come back to cause you more significant problems later on.
3. Attorneys aren’t cheap, and family law issues can be some of the costliest cases, primarily if you are litigating your issues in Court.
To save legal fees, talk to your attorney about alternative methods that don’t involve litigation. Many attorneys, such as myself, are trained in mediation and collaborative law, both of which allow you to reach agreements to avoid litigation. Make sure you talk with your attorney about the options available to you.
4. Talk with your attorney about their team working with them on your case.
Most law firms have attorneys who are partners and other attorneys who are associates. All attorneys have administrative staff, often called paralegals, who will assist with communications, scheduling, and even drafting pleadings. Having an entire team available to assist you not only means you can get the information you need quickly but it can also save you money when you have a team that efficiently and effectively includes paralegals.
Any family law issue can be life altering and cause stress, but hiring a skilled attorney who is experienced in family law matters and thoroughly understands the law is one of the best things decisions you can make. Contact me by calling 301-563-6685 to schedule a consultation.
About Andalman & Flynn, P.C.: Founded in 1998 in downtown Silver Spring, Maryland, Andalman & Flynn has forged a distinguished reputation for legal excellence. The Firm practices family law, estate planning, and probate throughout Maryland and the District of Columbia, and represents individuals seeking disability benefits throughout the country. The Firm focuses on cases that impact the rights of everyone and is there for clients when responsive legal help is most critical. The Firm has provided legal analysis on national and local television and radio, and its attorneys often testify before legislative bodies and are routinely invited to contribute to prominent legal publications. For more information about Andalman & Flynn, please visit the website at andalmanflynn.com or call 301.563.6685.