Nothing in life can prepare you to deal with the consequences of an impending divorce. No one gets married, assuming they will get divorced, and the decision can have various implications on your life. If you are in Lehi, Utah, you can just state that you have irreconcilable differences with your spouse as a ground for divorce. As long as you and your spouse agree on crucial things like child custody, asset distribution, and alimony, you can get divorced within months (there is a mandatory 90-day waiting period in Utah). No matter the circumstances, hiring an attorney is always a wise idea. We have a few tips below for choosing the right Lehi divorce lawyer.
Shop around
Would you trust a general physician for your heart surgery? You know the answer. That’s also true for divorce matters. You don’t need any random lawyer but an attorney who specializes in family law and has expertise in the field. Ask friends and others if they have worked with family lawyers in Lehi and would recommend someone. There are also dedicated legal resources online, and websites like Justia, Nolo, and Avvo are quite useful.
Meet the lawyer
Many law firms in Utah offer a free consultation for potential clients, while some divorce lawyers may charge a nominal fee for the first meeting. The best idea is to meet a lawyer in person, even when that means paying the price. Get your income statements and anything that could impact your divorce. For instance, if you want a divorce based on fault grounds, bring the evidence with you. The lawyer will typically want to know the case better.
Ask questions
As a client, you need to ask questions like-
- Have you worked on divorce cases that are similar to mine?
- What can you tell me about specific laws & rules that may apply to my divorce?
- How long have you been working as a divorce lawyer in Lehi? Can you share references?
- Do you handle matters concerning child custody and domestic violence?
- Do you know my ex-spouse’s attorney?
Know the fee
Most divorce lawyers charge an hourly rate and would be happy to share a ballpark in advance. Ensure that you ask the attorney about other expenses that are likely in the case. While getting divorced can cost you money, it would be worth the effort.
Call an attorney and insist on meeting them in person.
