shedding light on the difficult tasks in divorce


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Do You Need To Find A Lawyer?

Divorce 411: Do You Need To Find A Lawyer?

Finding a qualified family lawyer to represent you in your divorce is crucial. In most states, family laws seem relatively simple. Applying those laws to the unique facts of a case, however, is often difficult.

It’s worthwhile to speak with a lawyer to determine your legal rights. To find a lawyer:

1. Ask your friends and family for referrals.
If you know people who have experience with divorce and can recommend lawyers, immediately call those lawyers and schedule initial consultations.

2. Use an online legal directory and our Guidelines For Finding Family Lawyers Online.
Conduct your search using LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell’s Lawyer Locator, the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Member Directory or your state and/or local bar association’s resources.

LexisNexis Martindale-Hubbell is a national, private directory of lawyers that may be searched lawyer’s name, law firm name, city, state, practice area (i.e., family law), languages spoken, number of years in practice, law school attended, major memberships and peer ratings.

American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers is a private group of family lawyers who have been licensed for at least ten years and dedicated almost all of their legal practice to matrimonial law. Their member directory allows you to search for Academy members nationwide.

3. State and Local Bar Associations are usually non-profit organizations that license, govern and discipline lawyers. They provide information about local lawyers, including their addresses, telephone numbers, disciplinary actions, and certifications or specializations. Many associations also have online directories, lawyer referral services, or lawyers on staff available for consultations at a nominal fee.

4. Use your local “Yellow Pages” directory.
If you prefer doing things the old fashioned way, you may find a qualified lawyer using your telephone and our easy to follow, Guidelines for Finding Family Lawyers using your Telephone. We must warn you, however, that this is least effective, most time consuming, and most unreliable way to find a lawyer.

This article is not legal advice. You should consult an attorney if you have legal questions that relate to your specific divorce. The Modern Woman's Divorce Guide has no relationship with the organizations; agencies or programs listed above and does not endorse their services. We provide these links for your information only.

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