How To Choose a Family Solicitor

When a couple are about to divorce, dissolve a civil partnership, go over the details of a prenuptial agreement, or post nuptial, or a cohabitation or separation agreement they usually seek advice from a family solicitor. These are stressful times in a couple’s life, so they must choose a solicitor with whom they can build a good working relationship and who is likely to get them the desired outcome quickly. That is when choosing a family solicitor there are a number of factors to consider. In this blog, the family law team at Eatons Solicitors takes us through the different factors to consider.

Recommendation and Word of Mouth

Divorces, child arrangement, and even prenuptial agreements are stressful, highly emotionally charged situations, so getting support you need from your nearest and dearest will make it a little bit easier, especially if you know someone who has been on the journey you are about to embark on. They can advise you on the steps to take and can recommend a solicitor or law firm in your local area that is likely to help you reach the desired outcome. Such a recommendation is more likely to quickly allow you to instil trust in the solicitor because they come highly recommended, and you will already be aware of the level of service they provide.

Do your own research

Reading reviews, about local family solicitors are often a clever way of getting a feel for the level of service you will receive, Google is a good resource for those, particularly if like Eatons Solicitors, the firm actively encourages clients to leave a review.

However, the best way to get an idea of the level of service you can expect to receive is to visit the website where you will find information on the services provided and, in some cases, further reviews.

Be Prepared to Ask Questions

Family law covers a broad spectrum of cases from divorces and child arrangement to prenuptial agreements and financial settlement after divorce, but most family solicitors have experience in dealing with these types of cases and will be prepared to answer any questions you might have. So, ask questions about the procedure, the solicitor’s experience, and the type of accreditation they have.

Communication Style

Another important thing to consider when choosing a family solicitor is their communication style. A good family solicitoris approachable, empathetic, available, and supportive. After all, most of the time, when you need the advice of a family solicitor, you are going through what could be the most difficult time of your life, therefore, your solicitors must be capable of providing you with the support you need every step of the way. Booking an initial meeting with a reputable family solicitor such as Eatons Solicitors is the best way to gauge communication style.

Fee Structure and Affordability

When you have to go to issue court proceedings in family cases, you usually must pay a fee as well as what the solicitor is charging you. For example, a couple divorcing will have to pay £593 as well as solicitors’ fees. So, it is always a good idea to ask about the fee structure. Family solicitors either charge by the hour or have a fixed fee structure in place. If the solicitor works on the basis of a fixed fee structure, they will provide you with an invoice for each stage of the legal work at the beginning of the process.

However, the cost is often a reflection of the family solicitor’s experience, and a well-resourced, experienced solicitor is more likely to achieve a satisfactory outcome quicker, therefore, saving you time and money in the long run. This is especially true when the case is complex because you will want a family solicitor who takes a conciliatory approach and will ensure the outcome is satisfactory.

Approach, Reputation, and Proximity are Key!

When choosing a family solicitor, it is more important to consider the approach and the reputation of the solicitor because an experienced lawyer is more likely to get you desired outcome; therefore, saving you time and money. That is why reading reviews, doing your own research, and booking an initial consultation play a crucial part in the process. Considering location is also important because it will alleviate the extra stress of having to travel long distances to get to your appointments, although many firms now offer the option of telephone of Teams appointments.