Divorce is a stressful and complicated process. Choosing the right attorney to represent you can help to make the process easier and less stressful. The best way to find the right Divorce Attorney in Chicago is to ask family and friends who they have worked with, or to search online for reviews and recommendations. Once you have a short list of potential attorneys, schedule consultations to find out how each one will work with you and your case. During the consultation, pay attention to how well the lawyer communicates with you and how comfortable you feel with them.
A good divorce lawyer will have extensive experience and knowledge of Illinois family law. In particular, the firm should have significant experience handling divorces involving complex issues such as high assets and complicated incomes. Experienced lawyers will understand how these complex issues may impact the legal case strategy and settlement negotiations.
The best divorce lawyers will have a track record of success and satisfied clients. They should also be familiar with the local courts and judges and have a strong network of other family law attorneys to assist in complicated cases. In addition, they should have a solid understanding of the current and recent changes in the law. For example, Illinois divorce law changed dramatically in 2015 and again in 2017.
When evaluating an Illinois divorce attorney, consider their background, education, and credentials. A good lawyer will have a minimum of five years’ experience and preferably more than ten. They should be licensed in your state and be certified by the Family Law Certification Board (FLCB). The FLCB requires that divorce lawyers take continuing education courses to keep up with changes in the law.
It is also important to choose a divorce attorney who focuses on family law. This is because the practice of family law is constantly changing and demanding. A lawyer who specializes in divorces will have the skills, resources, and time to focus on your case. In contrast, a jack of all trades will have difficulty keeping up with the ever-changing laws and will be unable to devote enough time to your case.
In addition to family law experience, a good divorce lawyer should have specialized training in areas such as mediation and collaborative divorce. Both of these approaches to divorce are more amicable than traditional litigation and can save a lot of time, money and emotional turmoil for both parties.
Spousal support or alimony is another area that can be a source of significant stress during the divorce process. Financial stability during a divorce is important for both spouses. A seasoned Chicago spousal support lawyer can help you secure a fair and equitable alimony settlement.
When choosing a divorce lawyer, consider their experience in handling a variety of family law matters, including child custody, property division, and alimony. Moreover, consider the length of their experience and their track record of success in these types of cases. Also, make sure to look for an attorney who offers a free consultation and who provides transparent communication about the issues in a client’s case.