7 Mistakes To Avoid When Hiring a Child Custody Lawyer Utah

Picture of parents battling for child custody
When your happily ever after is no more, it's a difficult time. When children are involved, it adds an additional layer of complexity to the situation. Child custody disputes are often highly emotional and stressful. If you're dealing with such an important issue, you want the best child custody lawyer in Utah by your side. With so much at stake, you want an attorney you can trust to help you navigate the legal process. If you're wondering how to find the best lawyer and avoid the worst, we can help! Here are seven mistakes to avoid when hiring a child custody lawyer.
  1. Not Hiring a Family Law Attorney
Although you may need a lawyer right away, it's more important to hire the right one. Not every lawyer is qualified to handle child custody cases. If you face a child custody dispute, you need a family law attorney who has experience with cases just like yours. Take the time to make sure they specialize in family law. Child custody cases can be highly complex. You want a child custody attorney who understands this area of law and has a good reputation in your area. Retaining the proper representation is the first step in fighting for your rights and the best interest of your child.
  1. Hiring Without Weighing Your Options
In the rush to hire a family law attorney, it may be tempting to hire the first attorney you contact. It's never a good idea to hire a lawyer without doing your homework. Child custody issues are stressful and delicate matters, so it's not wise to make a rash decision when choosing an attorney. Take your time to compile a list of candidates. Do your research and check their credentials. Talk to people you know who have faced similar issues and see if they have a recommendation. Custody cases can drag on for months or longer, so it's crucial to choose an experienced, trustworthy Utah lawyer for the job.
  1. Failing to Consider a Lawyer's Experience
A common mistake when going through a divorce is rushing in to choose a lawyer without considering their record of experience. Many people choose to hire inexperienced or second-rate attorneys for financial reasons. If child custody is on the line, the last thing you need is an inexperienced attorney representing you. As you review attorneys, look at their credentials and their years of experience practicing family law. Ask them about their previous cases and what you can expect in yours. A good attorney should be transparent about their experience and their fees. They should be willing to answer any questions you may have.
  1. Blindly Trusting Personal Referrals
Asking for personal referrals is a good initial step, but that shouldn't be the deciding factor when choosing the best lawyer for your case. Your situation may be different than what your friend went through. Don't make a final decision based on a recommendation. Always schedule a consultation and learn about the lawyer's background and experience. It's a good idea to have a list of questions ready during the consultation. You want to make sure you can communicate with your attorney. They should have the time and desire to fight for the best possible outcome for you and your child.
  1. Not Understanding the Lawyer's Fees
Before you hire a Utah lawyer, be sure to understand the fee agreement. You want to make sure you know what costs you may incur along the way. Have a clear understanding of the retainer fee, compensation agreement, and any other charges that may pop up. The hourly rate of attorneys can vary widely. Rates often depend on factors such as a lawyer's experience and reputation, the complexity of your case, and the exposure to liability. Ask about their initial fees as well as charges for emails, phone calls, and other services. Having a clear picture of the fees can help you avoid surprises down the road.
  1. Choosing an Unavailable Attorney
An attorney may look good on paper, but if they aren't committed to your case, you're wasting your time and money. A common mistake when divorcing is not discussing whether the attorney will be available to handle the case. Some custody matters require constant legal support throughout the process. You want an attorney you can rely on to stay on top of your case and inform you along the way. Be sure to ask if the attorney you consult with will be the one handling your case. If possible, find an attorney who has the time and desire to focus on your child custody case.
  1. Hiring Someone You're Uncomfortable With
Choosing the best attorney for your child custody case is crucial. You shouldn't hire someone without giving it a great deal of thought. Having a level of understanding and rapport with your lawyer is essential. You don't want to choose someone who makes you feel uncomfortable. You will have to be honest with your attorney and disclose sensitive personal matters in a child custody case. You need a lawyer you can trust and communicate with to ensure the best possible outcome for you. Choose the Best Child Custody Lawyer in Utah When your family is under threat, it's an emotional and highly stressful time. You may be tempted to rush in and choose the first lawyer you find. With so much at stake, it's important to slow down and make an informed decision to ensure you're hiring the right child custody lawyer in Utah. The right attorney can increase your chances of a favorable outcome and help you navigate these complicated family matters. If you're facing a child custody dispute, we'd love to talk with you about your case. Contact Fair Price Lawyers today to schedule a 30-minute Zoom consultation.
Categories: Divorce, Family Law