While no divorce is easy, things become even more complicated when determining which spouse will have custody of the children. To initiate divorce proceedings, it’s best to consult a competent child custody lawyer. So, find the best lawyer specializing in child custody who will ensure your children’s well-being receives the attention it needs.
What is a child custody lawyer?
Strictly speaking, there is no such thing as a child custody lawyer. We would speak of a lawyer specializing in family law, that is, a lawyer experienced in divorce proceedings and shared custody.
It is best to consult a lawyer when initiating divorce proceedings. In a divorce by mutual consent, a custody attorney in Tulsa, OK, will help document both spouses’ wishes and facilitate the divorce process and the appearance before a family court judge.
In a more contentious divorce, hiring a child custody lawyer is preferable to defend your rights and give yourself the best chance of obtaining custody of the children.
It should, of course, be noted that a lawyer, just like the judge, will take into account the well-being of the children, which must remain a priority for the parents, despite any feelings they may have towards each other.
How to choose one
Choosing the right lawyer is a long but important process. To begin, compile a list of potential candidates by speaking with child custody advisors, people in your industry, other lawyers, and other reliable sources. Then, contact and interview each preferred candidate in person. A growing number of companies are investing time and resources in a formal request for proposals (RFP) process.
Whether your child custody follows a formal or informal process, construction managers should consider the following ten points when deciding which lawyer is best suited to your child custody’s legal needs.
1. Identify your legal problem and consult a specialist
The first step in finding a lawyer is understanding the problem or issue you have. The law encompasses many different specialties and subspecialties, and before you can accurately determine the best lawyer to represent you, you need to determine what type of lawyer is best suited to address and resolve your problem. During this initial phase, consult with your general corporate counsel or another trusted child custody advisor, such as your accountant.
Choose a specialist to help you solve your problem. Today’s lawyers are as specialized as doctors. For example, in the event of a car accident, you can find a selection of the best lawyers by city, such as a Tulsa car accident attorney. You wouldn’t ask your internist to perform open-heart surgery. Similarly, you wouldn’t ask your corporate general counsel to handle a payroll and time audit or an OSHA inspection. A specialist will be familiar with the latest developments and legal nuances applicable to your issue, without charging you extra for being at the forefront of the law. This cutting-edge knowledge is essential, as it may make only a marginal difference in your case’s outcome.
2. Make sure the lawyer has the required experience
The appropriate level of experience is one of the most critical criteria when choosing a lawyer. You want a lawyer who has a proven track record in handling your type of case. Such experience will increase the likelihood that the lawyer can help you resolve your issue successfully.
Clearly, seniority, the number of cases handled in a particular specialty and geographic area, and past results are important factors to consider when assessing a lawyer’s “experience.” Experience includes knowledge of opposing counsel and the personalities involved in a case, accumulated wisdom and perspective to assess risks and develop winning strategies related to a specific issue, and the self-confidence to guide you through the complexities of legal proceedings.
Consulting the law firm’s website will also give you an overview of the firm’s practice. Explore the website of each firm on your shortlist and search for the firm and individual lawyers on Google.
3. Expect the lawyer to be a good communicator
Lawyers are paid to communicate with opposing counsel and the judges presiding over their cases. But it’s just as important to find a lawyer who can communicate effectively with you. You want a lawyer who anticipates your questions and keeps you informed about the progress of your case without you having to call them first.
A lawyer must be able to communicate in an organized and understandable manner. They must have a positive “patient-centered approach” and know when to communicate in person or by email. A lawyer must also be aware that excessive communication can be unnecessary and inefficient.
When you are asked to make a decision or take action, the lawyer must succinctly explain the options available to you, the practical and legal advantages and disadvantages of the different courses of action, and other issues relevant to your decision.
4. Consider the lawyer’s professionalism
“Professionalism” is more than personality. It involves certain objective actions and behaviors that distinguish the best lawyers from those who are merely competent. Among other things, you should expect the following from a “professional” lawyer:
“Professionalism” is more than personality. It involves certain objective actions and behaviors that distinguish the best lawyers from those who are merely competent. In particular, you should expect a “professional” lawyer to do the following:
· that he works diligently to protect your interests
· To work efficiently and economically, using your resources as if they were his.
· Quickly forward all customer phone calls or communications
· Arrive at meetings on time and well-prepared
· Ensure prompt and appropriate follow-up
· to advise you on alternative dispute resolution procedures
· To be respectful of everyone, regardless of their position, role, or status
· Be well-groomed and project an image of success that is appropriate for your child custody.
· To behave appropriately in all situations
· Respect all applicable laws and ethical rules
· Do nothing that could give the appearance of irregularity
A lawyer must demonstrate unwavering passion to protect your interests. The best lawyers take ownership of your problem and dedicate themselves to finding winning solutions.
