An Important Question to ask your Divorce Attorney

As an attorney, I often speak with clients about their legal situation, the specifics of their divorce or child custody case, and the process of working with an attorney. However, there is something that many people who are hiring a Los Angeles divorce attorney usually don’t ask:

“What’s your approach to divorce cases?”

Not all lawyers have the same perspective when it comes to your dissolution of marriage. For some, your case is a legal proving ground, an opportunity for them to do battle with another party and to deliver as much as possible in a “victory.” For others, it’s a chance to take a case before a judge and to litigate your future.

There are clients for whom each of these approaches makes sense. However, it’s important for you to know what you want from your case before you choose this type of attorney.

Los Angeles divorce cases that are conducted in a combative manner can cost you a lot of money in legal fees, and they can be particularly destructive to your relationship with your spouse or children.

Also, cases that go before a judge present a great deal more risk than cases that are managed through negotiation and settlement. In a courtroom, the judge hears the evidence and arguments and makes a decision based on external criteria. Alternatively, at the negotiating table, both parties work together to find common ground, which ultimately can give you more of what you want.

Since it’s such an important question, I’ll give you my answer as well.

My approach is to protect the rights of my clients while avoiding unnecessary legal battles. Clients trust me to do this on their behalf because I take the time to explain their options, talk through their questions, and make a recommendation for their situation.

Typically, I prefer to settle cases. My clients and I enter these conversations well prepared with the legal and financial information to achieve our goals. In cases where the other party is inflexible on our most important issues, I prepare for litigation, and I represent the client vigorously in court to achieve a satisfactory resolution.