You may also want to meet other lawyers in the firm or department to determine whether you can establish a rapport with them as well. A lawyer should have a reputation for being trustworthy, credible, well prepared and reasonable. To obtain objective information, ask other lawyers, accountants or former clients of the firm. Your lawyer can also provide you with references from former clients who have consented to the release of their names. Find out what resources your attorney has available - it may be other departments within the same law firm or outside experts.
Every case requires a plan of action consistent with goals that are mutually agree upon.
Unless strategy is developed and your goals focused upon, your case may become prolonged and costly. Ask the lawyer what result could be reasonably obtained and what strategies could be implemented to achieve your goals. The lawyer's response to this question will give you insight into his or her analytical skills and ability to develop a strategy. The Rules of Court mandate that an attorney and client have a written fee agreement. The difference in hourly rates and retainers among experienced divorce lawyers is relatively insignificant.