Getting divorced in Orlando, Florida, can feel overwhelming. When you meet with a lawyer for the first time, asking the right questions will help you find the best fit for your needs. These questions will show how the lawyer works and whether they can handle your situation.
1. What Is Your Experience With Cases Like Mine?
A good first step in finding an attorney is making sure the attorney has previously handled cases like yours. Each divorce is different, but experience with similar issues matters. A lawyer’s track record can affect how well they handle your case. Ask about their work with:
- Child custody plans and schedules, including complex arrangements
- Dividing assets like retirement funds, investments, and property
- Figuring out what businesses are worth and how to split them fairly
- High-conflict situations and how to reduce tension
- Any special situations you may have, such as a military divorce or long-term marriage
Understanding an attorney’s background will show if they can handle your specific needs. Ask them to share examples of similar cases without revealing private details. A good lawyer can explain how they tackle common issues while keeping other clients’ information private.
You should also ask how often they settle cases versus going to trial. While past results don’t guarantee future success, this info helps you understand how they work. Find out if they prefer to settle things quietly or fight hard in court. Their approach should match what you want for your case.
2. How Do You Approach Uncontested Divorce Cases?
Some lawyers prefer to fight in court, while others focus on finding peaceful solutions. Picking a lawyer whose style matches your goals affects both results and costs. When the parties agree, an uncontested divorce can save time and stress.
Ask how they handle different situations, such as:
- Working together with your spouse’s lawyer to find solutions
- Using mediators to resolve disagreements
- Negotiating agreements that work for both sides
- Finding creative solutions to tough problems
- Protecting your rights while keeping costs down
Their answers will tell you if their approach fits your needs and goals. A good lawyer should explain all your options and help you choose the best path forward.
3. What Is Your Communication Policy?
You’ll make many choices during your divorce, so clear communication is key. Ask these questions:
- How fast do you respond to messages?
- Do you prefer calls, emails, or texts?
- Who will be my main contact person?
- How often will you update me on my case?
- What happens in emergencies or on weekends?
- How do you keep private information safe?
Getting these answers early helps prevent confusion later. Also, ask how they handle urgent issues versus routine questions and who covers their work when they’re away. Good communication can make your divorce less stressful and help you understand what’s happening at each step.
4. What Is Your Fee Structure?
The Florida Bar advises that you always get fee agreements in writing. You need to understand all costs to plan your budget. Ask about:
- First meeting costs and what they cover
- Hourly rates or flat fees for different services
- Down payments needed and when they’re due
- Extra costs like court fees and expert help
- How often they bill and what details they provide
- Payment options and plans for tight budgets
- Normal total costs for cases like yours
- Ways to keep costs under control
Knowing these details helps you avoid surprise fees. Also, ask how hiring experts might change the total cost. Understanding all possible expenses helps you make smart choices about your case.
5. What Is Your Strategy For My Case?
A good divorce lawyer should outline their plan for your case. While plans can change, you should know:
- How long things might take
- The dates of important deadlines
- What problems do they anticipate, and how will they handle them
- Ways to solve issues without court when possible
- Chances of going to trial and what that means
- Best and worst possible outcomes and how likely each is
- How to gather and protect important evidence
- Steps to take right away to help your case
Understanding the plan helps you make better choices. Your lawyer should also have backup plans ready for different situations and explain how they’ll adjust their strategy if things don’t go as expected.
Choosing the right divorce lawyer is a crucial decision. At Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC, our team brings over 50 years of combined experience helping Orlando residents navigate divorce. We believe that clear, open communication is key to achieving the best outcomes for our clients. With our in-depth knowledge of Florida family law, we’re equipped to handle even the most complex divorce cases with confidence and care.
Contact the Orlando Divorce Law Firm of Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC for Help Today
For more information, contact our experienced Orlando divorce lawyers at Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC by calling (407) 831-0203 to schedule a free consultation.
We serve all through Glenn County and it’s surrounding areas. Visit our office at:
Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC
815 N Magnolia Ave Suite 100
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 831-0203
