Going through a divorce is likely one of the most difficult things you'll ever have to endure. You can't do it alone. You need the best lawyer you can find to help you handle your case smoothly.
Here's how to get what you want from your Texas lawyer.
1. Thoroughly Interview Any and All Lawyers You're ConsideringHave a prepared list of questions ready for each interview, then compare notes after you've interviewed at least three lawyers.
2. Don't Compromise Your Case By Letting Your Lawyer Dictate What You WantBe prepared each and every time you speak with your lawyer. If you feel like they are making all the decisions for you, you need to speak up.
3. Respect Their Time, But Don't Be IgnoredMany people going through a divorce complain that their lawyer never answers their phone, and doesn't return voicemails. This is OK once in a while, but if it's become a habit than it has gone beyond respecting their time.
If need be, show up in person when you know they are in the office and demand a meeting.
4. Push Back When You Need ToLawyers are extremely busy and many take on a lot of clients. In a lot of cases, this means that they may try to take the "easy way out" of a case so they can move onto the next.
This is especially true if they are working for you on a flat retainer. After all, they'll make the same fee whether they spend ten hours or 100 hours on your case.
If it seems like your lawyer is compromising too much in order to get the case completed, politely don't allow it. This is your life.
5. Show up to All Court Dates EarlyOften, you'll get the most time with your lawyer at the courthouse prior to scheduled court dates. Ask if they can show up a half-hour (or more) early so you can get some quality one-on-one time regarding your case.
Again, be thoroughly prepared prior to showing up.
6. If Need Be, Fire Them and Move OnThis can be a difficult thing to do if you've got a love of time and money invested in a lawyer that isn't working out. But in the long-term, it's better to find a new one that can get what you want out of the divorce.
You'll Get Through ThisNobody ever said divorce was going to be a walk in the park. But you will get through it and get what you want when you find the best Texas divorce lawyer for you.