15 Vital Questions to Ask a Divorce Lawyer During Your First Consultation

Going through a divorce is one of the hardest things a person can do. It feels like your whole world is changing, and you have to make big decisions about your home, your money, and your family. Because these choices matter so much, you need the right help. Finding a great lawyer is the first step, and the "initial consultation" (your first meeting) is your chance to see if they are the right fit for you.

To help you get ready, here is a guide with 15 vital questions to ask a divorce lawyer. I have written this in a way that is easy to understand, even if you don't know anything about law yet!

1. Do You Specialize in Divorce and Family Law?

You wouldn't go to a heart doctor for a broken arm, right? Law is the same. Some lawyers do attorney document review jobs where they just look at papers all day. You want someone who spends their time in a courtroom fighting for families. Ask them how many divorce cases they handle each year.

2. How Much is the Attorney Retainer Fee?

Lawyers usually don't work for free, and they often ask for money upfront. This is called an attorney retainer fee. Think of it like a deposit. They put this money in a special account and take it out as they work. You need to know exactly how much this is before you start.

3. What Happens When I Have an Attorney on Retainer?

Having an attorney on retainer means the lawyer has agreed to work for you whenever you need them for your case. It’s like having a professional on your team who is ready to jump in. Ask them what specific tasks that fee covers—does it include phone calls, emails, or just court dates?

4. Can You Explain Your "Attorney Shield Cost"?

Some legal services offer protection plans, often called an "attorney shield." If your lawyer mentions an attorney shield cost, ask what extra protection or service that provides. It might be a flat rate for certain tasks that saves you money in the long run.

5. How Will We Handle the House? (The Quit Claim Deed)

One of the biggest parts of a divorce is deciding who stays in the house. If one person keeps the home, the other person usually has to sign an attorney quit claim deed. This is a legal paper that says, "I am giving my share of the house to my ex-spouse." Ask your lawyer how this process works so you aren't confused later.

6. What Are the Attorney Client Privilege Exceptions?

Usually, everything you tell your lawyer is a secret. This is called "privilege." However, there are attorney client privilege exceptions. For example, if you tell a lawyer you are planning to commit a crime, they might have to tell someone. It’s important to know where the "secret line" is drawn.

7. Does Attorney Client Privilege California Rules Apply Differently?

If you live in the West Coast, you might ask about attorney client privilege California specifically. Every state has slightly different rules about what a lawyer can and cannot keep secret. A local expert will know the exact rules for your area.

8. Have You Ever Been in Trouble with the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission?

This sounds scary, but it’s a smart question! The attorney registration and disciplinary commission is like the "principal’s office" for lawyers. They make sure lawyers follow the rules. You want to make sure your lawyer has a clean record and hasn't been in trouble for being dishonest.

9. Who Exactly Will Work on My Case?

Sometimes you meet a famous lawyer like attorney moin choudhury, but then a junior assistant does all the work. Ask who will be answering your emails and who will show up in court. You want to know your "main person."

10. Can I See Some Attorney Reviews by Clients?

Just like you check reviews for a new phone or a restaurant, you should look at attorney reviews by clients. Ask the lawyer if they have testimonials or where you can find honest feedback from people they have helped before. If most people are happy, you probably will be too.

11. What is the Best Way to Reach You?

Some lawyers like phone calls, while others prefer email. If you have an emergency, you need to know how to get help fast. A 907 attorney (referring to the Alaska area code or a specific referral service) might have specific office hours you need to follow.

12. How Long Do You Think My Case Will Take?

Divorce can take a few months or a few years. While no one can give you an exact date, an experienced lawyer can give you a "best guess" based on how complicated your situation is.

13. What is Your Strategy for My Case?

Do they want to settle things peacefully (mediation), or do they want to go to a big trial? You need a lawyer whose style matches yours. If you want to stay friends with your ex, don't hire a lawyer who loves to fight!

14. What Are the Costs Besides Your Fee?

Going to court costs money. You might have to pay for filing papers, hiring experts, or making copies. Ask for a list of these extra costs so you aren't surprised by a big bill later.

15. What Should I Do Right Now?

At the end of the meeting, ask for homework. Should you stop posting on social media? Should you start gathering bank papers? A good lawyer will give you clear steps to protect yourself immediately.

Choosing a lawyer is a big deal, but it doesn't have to be confusing. By asking about things like the attorney retainer fee and checking attorney reviews by clients, you are taking control of your future. Remember, you are hiring them to work for you. Don't be afraid to ask as many questions as you need!