Choosing a divorce lawyer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your family law case. The attorney you hire will guide you through complex legal, financial, and emotional issues, so it's essential to find someone with the right experience and approach to match your needs.
When meeting with divorce attorneys, look for someone who:
- Is in good ethical standing with the state bar.
- Has the qualifications and experience to handle your specific legal situation.
- Is easy to communicate and collaborate with.
- Is transparent about legal costs and offers a fee structure within your budget.
Not all divorce attorneys have the same level of experience in every area of family law. For example, if your case involves a high-asset divorce or ownership of a family business, you’ll want a lawyer who understands complex asset valuation and division. If you anticipate a contentious custody dispute, it’s important to choose an attorney experienced in high-conflict child custody cases.
Here are seven tips to help you find the right divorce lawyer:
1. Ask for Referrals from Other Attorneys
If you know a lawyer you trust, even if they don’t practice family law, they may be able to refer you to a highly regarded divorce lawyer in your area. Lawyers often know which of their peers are respected, experienced, and effective in court.
2. Get Recommendations from Friends or Family
Personal referrals can be a valuable way to find a divorce attorney, especially if someone you know had a positive experience. Be sure to follow up by researching the lawyer’s background and qualifications to ensure they are a good fit for your specific situation.
3. Check with State Bar Associations
Before scheduling a consultation, check the disciplinary history of any attorney you're considering. Your state’s bar association website typically offers tools to verify whether a lawyer is licensed and in good standing or has faced disciplinary actions such as suspension or disbarment. Review any disciplinary actions carefully to determine if they are cause for concern.
4. Use Peer-Reviewed Legal Directories
Several respected organizations evaluate lawyers based on their experience, peer endorsements, and professional conduct. These can be great tools for researching divorce attorneys:
- American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) – Membership reflects significant experience and advanced knowledge in family law.
- Martindale Hubbell – Rates attorneys based on peer and judicial reviews of ethics and legal ability.
- Avvo – Offers ratings based on experience, professional achievements, and disciplinary history.
- Best Lawyers – Features attorneys selected through peer nominations and rigorous review.
- Super Lawyers – Recognizes top-rated attorneys based on peer reviews and independent research.
5. Read Online Reviews and Testimonials
Online reviews can provide insight into an attorney’s communication style, responsiveness, and how they manage cases. While sites like Google, Yelp, and Avvo can be helpful, keep in mind that not all reviews are verified, and one or two negative reviews don’t necessarily reflect an attorney’s overall quality.
6. Check for Conflicts of Interest
If the divorce lawyer (or any attorney at their firm) has previously represented or advised your spouse, it creates a conflict of interest and they cannot ethically represent you. Always confirm that no such conflict exists before proceeding.
7. Ask Questions During Your Consultation
Don’t hesitate to ask questions when meeting with a potential divorce lawyer. You should feel confident in their ability to guide you through the process. A strong attorney will listen carefully, explain your legal options clearly, and offer realistic solutions based on your goals — even if it’s not what you want to hear. Good communication and trust are key.
Looking for More Guidance? Check out 10 Questions to Ask: Choosing the Right Family Law Attorney for You.
Every family law case is unique. This information is provided for general guidance and should not be considered legal advice. For advice tailored to your situation, consult with a qualified family law attorney.
McKinley Irvin proudly serves clients throughout Washington and Oregon, with offices in Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, Everett, Tacoma, Puyallup, Vancouver, and Portland. If you’re looking for an experienced and compassionate divorce lawyer, contact us to schedule a consultation with a McKinley Irvin attorney.