Whether it was expected or a complete surprise, an eminent divorce can leave a person confused, angered, shocked, scared, or sad. One important thing to remember about the grieving process is that it affects both parties. Even if you are the one who is seeking the divorce, you will be affected emotionally unless you had already dealt with the grieving process during the years preceding your decision that a divorce was necessary. Regardless, it is important to understand that this emotional component can be simply overwhelming.

The general rule regarding legal representation in your divorce case is simply this: the earlier in the divorce process that you consult legal counsel, the more effective your legal counsel can be. While you might not be sure as to whether you wish to file for divorce or take other steps to address the conflict in your relationship, an experienced family law attorney can be a considerable resource. While most experienced family law attorneys maintain a low fee for initial consultations, they are also willing to discuss your options with you so that you may make an informed decision. Further, many maintain a list of competent marriage counselors and other community resources to assist you. They can also help you consider whether certain actions will affect you positively or negatively in a future divorce case.

Family law attorneys can have varying degrees of professional competence as well as a broad range of strengths, skills, relevant education and training, and, of course, weaknesses.  In choosing an attorney to represent your interests, you should seek out an experienced and concerned attorney who will represent your interests and promote your goals zealously while also making sure that your decisions are being made based on reason rather than emotion. Most importantly, you should seek out an attorney who you are comfortable with and who you trust.

The determination of whether one is comfortable with an attorney and feels that he or she can trust the attorney is obviously a personal, and subjective, one. However, the determination of whether an attorney possesses the optimal amount of experience and knowledge in family law can be assisted by consideration of the following factors.