If you wish to be assisted in the negotiation of a contract or accompanied for the incorporation of your company, a lawyer whose main activity is advice is preferable. On the other hand , if you plan to take legal action, it is strongly recommended to call on a lawyer accustomed to the courts.
General practitioner or specialist lawyer?
In the same way, you may need to select a generalist lawyer or, on the contrary, a specialist in a particular legal field depending on the case that concerns you.
Mastering the issues of family law, the lawyer practicing this matter can accompany you throughout your procedure and answer your questions.
The specialized lawyer has, for his part, an in-depth knowledge of a very specific legal field. It will therefore be useful when your case is particularly complex and requires advanced expertise. Note that a lawyer can highlight his specialization when his professional skills have been validated by a jury, and attested by a certificate issued by the National Bar Council.
Extra-legal skills
A competent lawyer is not only a good legal technician. Particularly in the context of divorces , he must also demonstrate human and relational skills. He must therefore listen to his clients and establish a relationship of trust with them conducive to good collaboration.
Good to know: the training of lawyers
In France, all lawyers have the Certificat d’Aptitude à la Profession d’Avocat or CAPA. To pass this exam, he must also have a master’s degree in law and undergo training for 18 months. It should be noted that certain legal professionals may benefit from special conditions of access to the profession.
Do I necessarily need a lawyer near me?
This is undoubtedly a secondary criterion when selecting a lawyer. The most important remains the competence, the adequacy with its needs or the relational aspect.
Expertise and experience are also fundamental when choosing a lawyer . However, it is important to keep in mind that a lawyer who is too far away will probably charge travel expenses. He will have to go to the court where your divorce case is being heard, which will incur costs for you .
Are high fees a guarantee of quality?
The fees are free. From one lawyer to another, their amount can vary greatly. And this is unfortunately not always representative of the quality of their work. The size of the firm, the presence of a large number of assistants, the reputation of the partners are all factors that can impact the fees of a lawyer and therefore the price of the divorce .
In any case, a conscientious lawyer will present the amount of his fees to you from the first meeting . He can thus offer you a flat rate or based on the time spent according to a defined hourly rate. Since 2015, before starting his mission, your lawyer must give you a fee agreement. This contract, signed by both parties, makes it possible to clearly set the sums owed by the customer. You are free on your side to accept or not its conditions.
Finally, be aware that if you do not have sufficient resources, you have the possibility of applying for legal aid . This can also be granted in the context of a divorce, whether contentious or conventional.
Note however: not all lawyers agree to work within the framework of legal aid, the amounts allocated for their work being very modest.
Should I consider the lawyer’s reputation?
Of course, it’s always better to hire a lawyer you’ve heard good things about than the other way around. That said, it’s essential to stay objective about your business and your needs. Above all, your lawyer must have the necessary skills to handle your case while offering fees adapted to your budget .
Should I trust my first impression?
It is indeed an important element. During your first meeting, you will be able to assess the tone used by the lawyer, the way in which he explains the handling of your case or his ability to listen. It is also important that you can assess its availability.
What are the qualities of a divorce lawyer?
The first is perfectly obvious: he must be competent in matters of family law. Whether you choose to divorce by mutual consent or in court, your lawyer must be able to accompany you throughout the amicable or contentious procedure. He must also be able to listen to you. This ability is essential because divorce has a strong impact on the lives of future ex-spouses and their families. He must also be able to explain the procedure to you in a simple and understandable way.
He must explain to you the procedure as well as the terms relating to the divorce in a clear and precise manner. We are not all lawyers: lawyers must put themselves on the level of their clients. A lawyer must also be responsive and proactive. It is indeed essential that he keeps you regularly informed of the progress of your case.