Many attorneys ask for a retainer from potential clients which is required to be given to the attorney prior to performing any work for a client. A retainer is a deposit of money which is placed in a special trust account until fees are actually earned by an attorney. Find out before or during the consultation whether or not the retainer is refundable. If it is, you will be billed for services provided, and at the end of the representation, if the retainer is not exhausted, any money remaining in the trust account will be returned to you. If the retainer is non-refundable, the attorney may keep the entire amount regardless of the extent of the services provided.
Some attorneys charge an hourly fee, and others charge a flat fee.
Ask the attorney how you will be charged for the services provided. If you are able to afford more than one consultation, it may be wise to consult with two or more attorneys and compare their services and rates. Also, it is important to choose an attorney who you feel comfortable speaking with, who appears to be interested in your particular case, and one upon whom you believe that you can rely to speak to the court on your behalf. Find out how long the attorney has practiced law in your state, and how much of the attorney's practice includes domestic matters. Finally, it may be important to seek out an attorney who will act in a manner that is consistent with your desires in your particular case.