But some family disputes can only be considered by the Court of Queen's Bench of Alberta. When choosing a lawyer, look for a lawyer who is familiar with family law. Look for competence, compatibility and availability. You will want a lawyer with whom you are comfortable, whose judgment you trust and who has the time to deal with your situation. Most complaints from clients dealing with matrimonial lawyers relate to communication.
Divorce is often an extremely stressful and emotional time.
Talk to your lawyer about how you can help maintain good communications. Your lawyer is required to give you a retainer letter detailing how you will be charged, how much it will cost and when you will have to pay. Most lawyers use the time involved in working on a file as one factor in determining the amount to be charged. In a matrimonial breakdown, the costs will vary depending on you and your spouse. The fees that you pay to deal with your marriage breakdown will bear no relation to the fees your neighbours paid to their lawyer in their situation.