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Step 1
Explore the "Attorney" entries in your local yellow pages. This is the first step to finding a quality child custody lawyer. Write down the names and telephone numbers of all who practice family law in your area.
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Step 2
Call your state bar association and ask for recommendations of family court or child custody lawyers in your area. Check this list against the list from the yellow pages of the phone book. Ask specific questions about complaints against any of the child custody lawyers you are considering.
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Step 3
Talk to friends and family in your area to see if any of them have lawyer recommendations. Any friend who has been through a divorce and child custody case can give you insight into lawyer recommendations and what types of questions to ask them.
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Step 4
Call the remaining child custody lawyers on your list, and make an appointment for an initial consultation. Many law offices offer these for free. Any lawyer that does charge may be more expensive, but they may also have a better reputation or case history than the others. Weigh your needs and your finances.
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Step 5
Write down questions to ask each child custody lawyer at the initial consultation. Prepare to explain your situation in detail. Remember to include questions about physical and legal custody, visitation rights, child support, and things such as health and life insurance, trust funds, and claiming the children on taxes.
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Step 6
Take notes at each consultation with the different child custody lawyers. Pay attention to both the professionalism and the friendliness of the particular attorneys. You do not just want a competent lawyer, but one who makes you feel at ease and confident. Also ask about fee structures and payment options.
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Step 7
Compare notes and impressions once you are through with all the appointments with the family law attorneys. Then, make a decision about the best one for your case and call to set up the next meeting. You have successfully chosen a child custody lawyer.
