This guest post was brought to you by Watts McCray.
No matter who you are, you can't deny that the legal system is complex and too difficult to tackle all on your own, especially when you have hungry kids to feed! Whether it's trusts, wills, separation, or child support services, you need to know that you can trust your family lawyer to want the best for your family.
Your family lawyer should be the first port of call when any legal questions arise, but this can be hard if you feel uncomfortable, overwhelmed, or uncertain. When you're on the lookout for a family lawyer, keep these five things in mind before making your decision.
They make you feel comfortable
Does the lawyer greet you with a smile, shake your hand, and make you feel welcome no matter where you're meeting, or do you dread going to your lawyer more than you dread going to the dentist? If it's the latter, it may be time to rethink your family lawyer; after all, if you can't feel comfortable enough to sit in an office or cafe with your lawyer, you'll be hard-done to feel comfortable trusting them to defend you and your family's needs on paper and in court.
They explain legal terms clearly
While legal terms can often be complex and difficult to get your head around, a good family lawyer will always try to explain things in ways that you can understand. If your lawyer is overloading your brain with jargon about child support schemes or glossing over important terms like ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution), it may be time to question their motives. After all, a good family lawyer is there to your family with their legal needs, not hinder them or overwhelm you.
They talk to you about more than just "legal stuff"
Of course, your family lawyer is there to help you get your legalities in order, but that doesn't have to be all you talk about. Lawyers are people too, and a family lawyer who is genuine will take the time to ask about your family or how your day is going. Family lawyers who take an interest above and beyond your legal concerns are generally more genuine; plus, being able to communicate about different parts of your life will open up channels of trust between you and your lawyer.
They ask you what you want to achieve for your family
A great family lawyer will always listen to your opinions, wants, and needs, and respond accordingly. Your family lawyer shouldn't try to dictate what you and your family should want or should do; instead, they should listen to what you want and then help to find a legal solution that best fits your needs. Keep an eye out for someone who tries to understand your point of view, and works hard to help you obtain the outcomes you want.
Other people have recommended them to you
In advertising, nothing is more influential or genuine than word of mouth! When you're looking for a family lawyer you can trust, have a chat to other clients in the reception. Do they speak highly of the lawyer in question, or do they have no opinion as of yet? Ask them for their opinion on other lawyers they have tried as well; their responses will either reassure you, or provide you with some alternatives to consider that may better suit your needs.
As with anything, finding a family lawyer you can trust takes time and patience. Don't just settle; instead, keep an eye out for these signs when you next meet with a family lawyer, and both you and your family will reap the benefits.
Jessie Macken is a blogger and mummy who has had her fair share of family law struggles in the past. Luckily, she had a great family lawyer she could trust to help her navigate the legal landscape.
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