How to Find the Right Divorce Lawyer

You will want your divorce handled professionally and with care. By finding a divorce lawyer you trust and who understands your situation, you can rely on a specialist to help protect your interests, your future well-being and financial stability. Finding the right person can make all the difference. In this article we look at the things you should consider when choosing a divorce lawyer.

Ask for recommendations from friends, family or colleagues who have gone through a similar process. Additionally, looking at online reviews and testimonials can help provide insight into a firm’s reputation and client satisfaction.

The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners are independent directories that rank law firms based on their expertise, client feedback, and professional standing so check to see if the firm you are looking at is recognised. The firm you choose must be regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

Search for law firms that specialise in family law and have a strong track record in divorce. You will need to consider their expertise, credentials and the way they approach the divorce process, including financial settlements, and children matters. An initial consultation will give you the opportunity to ask questions about the potential outcome of your case and check the lawyer is the right person for you.

Resolution is a community of solicitors and family law professionals who work to resolve issues in a constructive way that help to reduce conflicts. This can include using mediation and alternative dispute resolution methods. If the divorce lawyer you are considering is a member of Resolution it will help give you peace of mind that they are committed to this way of working.

You should consider speaking to a specialist high-net worth divorce lawyer if your case will involve significant financial assets, including property, pensions, investments and business interests. They will be experienced in handling substantial financial settlements and can help ensure that your wealth is properly assessed and that you receive a fair division of assets.

At your initial meeting with a divorce solicitor, it is important to ask the right questions to ensure they are right for you. Start by asking about their experience in family law, particularly in handling cases similar to yours. Inquire about their approach to divorce, for example, do they focus on negotiation and mediation. Ask about the estimated timeline for your divorce and what factors could affect it. Discuss costs, including their fee structure, potential additional expenses, and ways to keep costs under control. If children or significant assets are involved, ask how they would approach financial settlements and child arrangements. Finally, clarify how they will communicate with you throughout the process and what level of support you can expect. These questions will help you gauge whether they are the right solicitor to guide you through your divorce.

In a divorce, it is not legally required for both parties to have a solicitor – people can choose to represent themselves. However, doing so can be risky, especially when it comes to negotiating financial settlements or child arrangements, as they may not fully understand their legal rights or the long-term implications of any agreements made. Without legal representation, there is also a risk of delays, procedural errors, and an imbalance in negotiations if the other party has a solicitor.

An alternative option is the one lawyer: two client model, where both parties can work with the same lawyer to receive impartial legal guidance and support in reaching an amicable agreement. This approach can help reduce conflict, streamline the process, and save costs while ensuring both parties are fully informed about their options. However, this model is only suitable for couples who are open to cooperation and have a level of mutual trust.

Choosing the right divorce lawyer means that you will receive clear advice that will help you make informed decisions throughout the divorce process. Helping to manage both the emotional and practical challenges of divorce, including child arrangements and financial settlements, your lawyer will be there to work for your best interests and provide the support you need.

Ready to take the next step? As leading divorce solicitors in Milton Keynes, our team of family law specialists can advise and guide you from the moment we start working with you. As well as our head office in Milton Keynes, we also have offices in Bicester, Watford, and London where we can arrange appointments to see you in person. Talk to us in confidence and find out where you stand. Get in touch – we’re here to help.

This article is intended for the use of our clients and other interested parties. The information contained in it reflects the author’s view and is believed to be correct at the date of publication. However, it is necessarily of a brief and general nature and should not be relied upon as a substitute for specific professional legal advice.