In Toronto, a family lawyer will be able to help deal with any legal issues relating to property, child custody, child support or spousal support in the event of a divorce or separation. There are many legal concerns to look after once you and your spouse or partner decide to separate or to get a divorce. Some of these issues are:
- Who will get custody of the children?
- How much is child support?
- How much is spousal support?
- Who gets to live in the marital home?
- Who will get the car, or the paintings or the cat or dog?
- What happens to money in the bank or in investments?
- What happens to all the debts?
- Can you get a protection order, if you’re dealing with domestic abuse?
All of these legal concerns can be very difficult to understand on your own. You will definitely need some help to sort out all the legalities involved in order to come up with the best arrangements for everyone.
A family law lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and responsibilities. He can explain to you in plain words and give details on how the law applies to your case. He can also help you reach an agreement with your former partner without going to court.
There are too many family lawyers waiting to offer you their services, but not all of them will be the right fit for you. When you’re looking for a lawyer, follow these steps to make sure you don’t end up with the wrong lawyer.
Step 1 – Identify your needs
Do you need to hire a mediator to help you negotiate the terms of your divorce? Are your needs more complicated and you need a divorce lawyer to negotiate a settlement with your spouse’s attorney? If neither parties can agree, then a litigated trial is the only course of action. Keep in mind that any family lawyer that you consider will try to influence you in the direction they specialize in. Know what you need to get out of your divorce or separation first so you can decide on the right legal services to hire.
Step 2 – Find at least three potential lawyers
Ask for personal recommendations from trusted sources. A good word of mouth from someone who has actual experience of a lawyer’s expertise is usually reliable. In most cases, it is an advantage to look for someone who is within the local area. Clearly you need to make sure a potential lawyer specializes in family law, but you also need to look for someone who is experienced and has handled several cases similar to yours, someone who can communicate with you without difficulty and who is familiar with the local court system. Research on the lawyer’s trial record and history of success in court to give you an idea of how successful he is in negotiation.
Step 3 – Meet with the lawyers
Most lawyers provide free consultation for the initial meeting so be sure to be as thorough as possible. Prepare a list of questions to ask. Here are some:
- How long have you practiced family law?
- What type of client do you represent?
- How do you typically handle a case?
- What are your rates? How often will I be billed for the retainer?
- Will a colleague or associate manage my case?
- What should I expect?
Step 4 – Choose the one
Review how the first meeting went and weigh up your overall thoughts and feelings towards each of them. Here are some questions to help you make an assessment:
- What’s your first impression?
- How did you feel? Comfortable? Intimidated? Confused?
- Did he answer all your questions clearly and simply?
- Do you feel you could communicate well together?
- Do you feel he is someone you can trust?
- Can you afford him?
- Do you think he can support your values and beliefs about family?
- Do you feel he has your best interest at heart?
Divorce or separation within the family can turn your world upside down. Not only will it wear everyone down physically, it can leave you in financial uncertainty and in emotional and mental turmoil. Finding the right family lawyer in Toronto is crucial to help make the whole process smooth, quick and less expensive.
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