Even the most amicable divorce may turn ugly if the question child custody comes up. Since most parents want to be involved in their kids’ lives, they will fight to defend their rights. Experienced lawyers are always required to help both sides to reach an acceptable agreement
Availability
Most accomplished, sought-after attorneys are nearly impossible to get on the phone. Because they are normally busy with top clients, they can be unwilling or unable to take new cases. It is not uncommon to hire one lawyer, only to have his underlings and associates handle most of the work on your case. This is rarely an auspicious arrangement when it comes to family law cases.
Since your kids are probably the most precious thing to you, you want a child custody attorney you can reach. You also want someone who can drop everything when you have emergencies. So if you find it difficult booking an appointment with your prospective lawyer then keep looking.
Experience
Since courts encourage parents to make their personal arrangements, most child custody cases are decided without the ruling of a judge. Skillful lawyers take this opportunity to negotiate favorable agreements which get their clients what they want. On the flip side, inexperience attorneys may fall prey to savvy negotiators, leaving you with arrangements which do not sit well with you.
It is vital to focus only on attorneys who practice family law to find a seasoned litigator. The last thing you want is somebody who dabbles in this complex legal field. You need a professional who devotes most or all of their time to such case. Look for firms which advertise themselves as family law firms.
Local Office
Because these cases are often hands-on affairs which need many meetings and visits with your attorney, you want one who is located in your area. It is also a great idea to get a litigator whose office is close to the court where your action will take place as they may know the local court procedures.
Reasonable Fees
In most cases, child custody lawyers will charge you an hourly fee or a flat one. If you choose the latter, odds are the final bill will cost a few thousand dollars. The hourly rate is usually reserved for cases that are more complex which involve court battles. Lower prices do not necessarily mean inferior service. However, less experienced, less accomplished lawyers charge lower rates. If you want quality service on a budget, getting a reputable litigator with reasonable rates may need an extensive search. Contact the state bar association or visit their website to locate an attorney in good standing in your area.
The above guide will help you to get an experienced child custody attorney in your area to handle your case well.
