What to Look for in a Divorce Trial Attorney

Divorce and legal separation proceedings can be emotionally draining and legally complex, making it crucial to have a skilled attorney by your side to guide you through the process. When searching for a divorce trial attorney to represent your interests, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure you have the best possible representation. Here are some key things to look for:

1. Experience in Divorce Trials: Look for an attorney with significant experience specifically in divorce trials. Divorce litigation requires a unique set of skills and strategies, so it's important to choose someone who is well-versed in navigating the courtroom environment. The attorneys at Harris & McKeown have experience litigating all family law issues from divorce to custody, from complex business valuations and pension division to breach of fiduciary duty actions.
2. Track Record of Success: Research the attorney's track record of success in handling divorce trials. This includes not only winning cases but also achieving favorable settlements for their clients. Client testimonials, case outcomes, and peer reviews can provide valuable insights into the attorney's capabilities. Trial is never our first option; however, trial may be the only path towards securing relief our clients. When settlement is not an option, we litigate for our clients zealously to ensure the best chances for a favorable outcome in court.
3. Expertise in Family Law: Choose an attorney who specializes in family law and has in-depth knowledge of divorce laws and procedures in your jurisdiction. An attorney who focuses exclusively on family law is likely to have a deeper understanding of the nuances of divorce cases. Both Kaleen Harris and Andrew McKeown are board certified California Family Law Specialists. This distinction is awarded to exceedingly few family law attorneys in our community. To learn more about what it takes to be a Family Law Specialist, check out this post.
4. Effective Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in any legal proceeding. Look for an attorney who communicates clearly and promptly, keeping you informed about the progress of your case and explaining complex legal concepts in a way that you can understand. We understand that this is a stressful time for our clients. We strive to be available and transparent for our clients in order to decrease an already stressful situation.
5. Strategic Thinking: A good divorce trial attorney should be a strategic thinker who can anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and develop a comprehensive legal strategy tailored to your specific situation. They should be proactive in advocating for your interests and protecting your rights throughout the trial process.
6. Empathy and Sensitivity: Divorce is often an emotionally charged process, and a good attorney should be empathetic and sensitive to your needs and concerns. They should be able to provide support and guidance while remaining objective and focused on achieving the best possible outcome for you.
7. Accessibility and Availability: Choose an attorney who is accessible and available to address your questions and concerns. You should feel comfortable reaching out to your attorney whenever you have a pressing issue or need clarification on a legal matter.
8. Transparent Fee Structure: Make sure you understand the attorney's fee structure upfront, including their hourly rates, retainer fees, and any additional costs associated with your case. A good attorney will be transparent about their fees and provide you with a clear understanding of what to expect in terms of costs. We strive to outline for our clients our fee structure and expectations up front so there are no hidden fees or surprises in our billing.

In conclusion, selecting the right divorce trial attorney is a critical decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can find a skilled and experienced attorney who will advocate for your interests and guide you through the divorce process with confidence and compassion. To speak with one of our attorneys, follow this link.