For most people getting a divorce is the worst experience they will have had to date in their lives
. Finding out part way through the process that they are using a solicitor who is not advising them properly or is costing more than they anticipated is the last thing they need. Taking time to choose the correct solicitor is very important.
First look at your circumstances, if your divorce is simple then it may be possible to do the divorce with very little help from a solicitor. If you decide that you need a solicitor make sure that you find one whose experience is relevant to your case. For example if you have suffered abuse or domestic violence, then your solicitor should have experience in dealing with these issues. If children are involved you need a solicitor that has previously dealt with divorces involving children.
At some point during the divorce process there are usually points of disagreement, which can quickly degenerate into long running arguments. Finding a Resolution accredited solicitor can help to make sure that points of disagreement are resolved quickly without them becoming issues that slow the process down and add to the distress and costs of the divorce. There are 5,500 Resolution accredited firms within the UK who follow a code of practice that promotes a non-confrontational approach to divorce.
Try to speak with 2 or 3 solicitors before choosing one. The majority of solicitors offer a free or fixed fee first consultation. At this consultation you can establish if the solicitor has experience which is relevant to your case. In addition, you can also see if you can work with this solicitor, it is vital that you feel you can communicate with your solicitor and that they can understand your point of view too. After speaking to 2 or 3 solicitors you will also better understand your situation and the options available to you.
At the initial consultation ask about costs, these vary considerably from firm to firm. Choose a solicitor that you can afford, so you do not struggle to pay the legal fees.