How to Hire an Attorney and File for Divorce

Interview several attorneys before choosing one.

If you’ve made the decision to divorce, the next step is hiring an attorney and filing. Hiring an attorney should be a careful, deliberate process because his advice and actions could determine your emotional and financial future. Once you’ve hired a lawyer you are comfortable with, he should guide you through the filing process and other court procedures.

Instructions

1. Check with your state’s bar association or national professional societies for divorce and family law attorneys in your area. Pick a lawyer who specializes in divorce for best results.

2. Interview candidates. Ask about their qualifications and continuing education. Inquire about their philosophy or approach to divorce. For example, if you want a low-conflict dissolution of your marriage, choose an attorney who shares this outlook.

3. Be clear about the attorney’s fee schedule and retainer. Pay the retainer.

4. Provide your attorney with all of the paperwork she needs, such as bank and retirement account statement, tax returns and property deeds, for example.

5. Ask your attorney to file paperwork with the court to begin the divorce proceedings. The process varies by state, or even county. Your attorney should be able to guide you.