Divorces often entail a large amount of work that affects everyone involved. While your lawyer is a vital resource in the divorce process, you still play a critical role as the client. There are certain tasks that an attorney takes care of such as monitoring deadlines, filing documents and drafting paperwork.
The client is not expected to be familiar with the state’s divorce laws or deal with the logistics of the case; this is why you hire an attorney. An experienced lawyer takes charge of the divorce but requires your help with a few things. A client’s duties include collecting important documents such as tax returns, providing information and facts about the case and signing documents.
Beginning a Divorce Case
Your attorney’s office is usually the location of your initial divorce consultation. During the first meeting, your lawyer asks several questions, guides you through the divorce process and listens to details of the case. Many lawyers give their clients divorce forms that they are required to fill out at the first meeting or afterwards.
- A good attorney clearly explains the game plan or strategy for the case. Some individuals want an aggressive lawyer who takes charge while others want to play an active role in their divorce process and work closely with the lawyer.
- It is essential to find an attorney who is qualified to deal with your divorce as well as work on the case according to your terms. For instance, if spouses are still cordial and can compromise, they are likely to be more comfortable with a lawyer who will collaborate with the other party rather than create animosity. Click here for divorce attorney Houston.
- Collaborative or mediation divorce may be ideal for your case, particularly if there is a possibility of you and your spouse agreeing on vital issues such as schedules for child custody, the marital home and alimony.
- Alternatively, if your spouse plans to engage in a vicious battle during each step of the process or the marriage has a history of domestic violence, a restraining order or aggressive divorce complaint would be suitable.
- Your lawyer’s strategy for the divorce will ultimately be based on the unique aspects of your case. A lawyer needs to be aware of the strategy that the client prefers.
Client’s Role in a Divorce
After hiring a divorce lawyer, you and your attorney need to communicate frequently as the divorce advances. Your attorney may rely on you to provide the facts and background information for paperwork and pleadings. You spouse’s lawyer may also schedule a deposition or court hearing that you are expected to attend.
While your lawyer keeps track of deadlines, these scheduled depositions or hearings should be attended alongside your attorney. It might be inconvenient or uncomfortable but it is part of the process of divorce.
Conclusion
Divorce can be a frustrating and slow process but do not hasten to blame your attorney for the pace. Several things are beyond your lawyer’s control such as your spouse’s refusal or inability to cooperate, the length of your divorce trial and the court’s calendar. You should expect your lawyer to meet deadlines, communicate regularly and provide high quality work.