Questions to Ask a Custody Lawyer During Consultation
Essential questions to help you evaluate a custody lawyer and understand your legal options during a child custody consultation.
1What is your experience handling custody cases similar to mine?
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What is your experience handling custody cases similar to mine?
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Why this works
Understanding their specific experience helps you determine if they're well-equipped to handle your unique situation.
2What are the different types of custody arrangements available?
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What are the different types of custody arrangements available?
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Why this works
Learning about legal custody, physical custody, joint custody, and sole custody helps you understand your options.
3What factors will the court consider when determining custody?
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What factors will the court consider when determining custody?
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Why this works
Understanding the criteria helps you prepare your case and set realistic expectations.
4What is your strategy for my case?
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What is your strategy for my case?
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Why this works
This reveals their approach and helps you assess if their strategy aligns with your goals.
5How long do custody cases typically take in this jurisdiction?
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How long do custody cases typically take in this jurisdiction?
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Why this works
Setting realistic timeline expectations helps you plan financially and emotionally.
6What are the estimated costs and fee structure?
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What are the estimated costs and fee structure?
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Why this works
Understanding financial obligations upfront prevents surprises and helps with budgeting.
7Do you charge for consultations, phone calls, and emails?
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Do you charge for consultations, phone calls, and emails?
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Why this works
Knowing how billing works for all communications helps you manage legal costs effectively.
8What is the likelihood of achieving my desired custody arrangement?
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What is the likelihood of achieving my desired custody arrangement?
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Why this works
A realistic assessment helps you set appropriate expectations and make informed decisions.
9How will you communicate with me throughout the case?
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How will you communicate with me throughout the case?
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Why this works
Understanding communication practices ensures you'll stay informed about your case progress.
10What documentation should I start gathering?
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What documentation should I start gathering?
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Why this works
Knowing what evidence is important helps you begin building a strong case immediately.
11Can you explain the custody evaluation process?
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Can you explain the custody evaluation process?
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Why this works
Understanding evaluations helps you prepare if one is ordered in your case.
12What are the grounds for modifying custody orders in the future?
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What are the grounds for modifying custody orders in the future?
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Why this works
Knowing modification criteria helps you understand the long-term flexibility of any arrangement.
13How do you handle disputes over visitation schedules?
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How do you handle disputes over visitation schedules?
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Why this works
Understanding their approach to common conflicts helps you assess their problem-solving style.
14What happens if my ex violates the custody agreement?
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What happens if my ex violates the custody agreement?
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Why this works
Knowing enforcement options gives you confidence that agreements will be upheld.
15Will I need to go to trial, or is mediation possible?
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Will I need to go to trial, or is mediation possible?
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Why this works
Understanding the process helps you prepare emotionally and financially for what's ahead.
16How do you handle cases involving domestic violence or substance abuse?
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How do you handle cases involving domestic violence or substance abuse?
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Why this works
If relevant, this reveals their experience with sensitive issues that may impact custody.
17What role will my child's preferences play in the decision?
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What role will my child's preferences play in the decision?
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Why this works
Understanding how the court considers children's wishes helps you know what to expect.
18Can you provide references from past clients?
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Can you provide references from past clients?
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Why this works
Speaking with previous clients gives you insight into their effectiveness and client relationships.
19Who else in your firm might work on my case?
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Who else in your firm might work on my case?
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Why this works
Knowing the full team helps you understand who you'll be working with and their qualifications.
20What should I not do during the custody process?
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What should I not do during the custody process?
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Why this works
Understanding potential pitfalls helps you avoid mistakes that could harm your case.
Preparing for Your Custody Consultation
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.