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Q. How can I find a divorce lawyer when my husband is a lawyer? |
Dear Donna,
I am having difficulty hiring a divorce attorney in my city because my husband is also an attorney. What should I do? -Blue in the Bay Area
Dear Blue,
It's true that in some small towns, it seems that all of the lawyers belong to the same "club." This can be challenging for a wife seeking an independent attorney for divorce, and if you're married to the local judge, it's a lulu! So, "What should you do?" Seek counsel from a family lawyer who is located in a larger nearby community. Because the Bay Area of California is a large metropolis, this should reduce the potential problem, but during your initial telephone conversation with prospective lawyers, be sure to ask if he or she is familiar with your lawyer. Use our Guidelines for First Telephone Calls to Lawyers and other related tools to help you get facts and compare options.
Also, be sure to ask your potential attorneys about the options for your divorce process. Mediation, Collaborative Law and Litigation are all available and the process you choose will ultimately have more practical impact than the lawyer you choose. Do you have children? Mediation and Collaborative Law are settlement focused and highly effective, a big plus when you will be sharing children with your Ex. And don't be too sure that your husband will prefer the Courtroom: many lawyers going through divorce are just as eager as their spouses to avoid court battles because of the expense and increased acrimony involved.
Best wishes!
Donna.
This article is not legal advice. You should consult an attorney if you have legal questions that relate to your specific divorce.
