15 Vital Questions to Ask a Divorce and Family Lawyer Before You Hire One
15 Vital Questions to Ask a Divorce and Family Lawyer Before You Hire One
Choosing the right representation for your family law or divorce matter is one of the most consequential decisions you will make. In Los Angeles County, the legal landscape is complex, and the outcome of your case often depends on the experience and strategy of the attorney you select.
As you interview potential advocates, use these 15 questions to ensure you are hiring a professional who can navigate local procedures, protect your interests, and, most importantly, win if your case goes to trial.
1. Are you familiar with the specific family law divisions in this county?
Los Angeles County has self-contained family law divisions. You need a lawyer who understands the unique preferences and procedures of local judges.
2. Is court-ordered mediation in this jurisdiction confidential?
In some courts, mediators reveal statements to the judge; in others, they do not. Knowing how your statements will be handled is critical to your strategy.
3. Will the mediator make a custody recommendation if we cannot agree?
Understanding whether the mediator acts as a “recommending counselor” helps you prepare for the possibility of a contested hearing.
4. What is your Martindale-Hubbell rating?
An AV-Preeminent rating is the highest possible, held by only 5% of U.S. attorneys. It indicates the highest level of legal skill and ethics. Galen Gentry has maintained an AV rating since 2000.
5. Are you a “dabbler” or a dedicated family law practitioner?
California family law is exceptionally complex. You should avoid attorneys who practice in more than three areas of law or handle divorce only as a favor.
6. Is your firm a “divorce mill”?
Some firms prioritize volume over results, delegating substantive work to inexperienced staff. At the Galen Gentry Law Group, Mr. Gentry handles all substantive facets of your case personally.
7. Will I have direct access to you for substantive questions?
Many firms have layers of personnel that make communication difficult. We prioritize lawyer accessibility, ensuring you speak directly to Mr. Gentry about the legal issues in your case.
8. Who else will be working on my case?
You need to know who will accompany you to court if an emergency (ex parte) motion arises and your primary attorney has a conflict.
9. Will you provide me with copies of all pleadings and correspondence?
Staying current on your case status is vital. A best practice is receiving these documents via email as they are filed or received.
10. Do you charge for secretarial or administrative time?
Many clients find it unfair to be charged for basic office tasks. You should discuss whether you will be billed for paralegal or secretarial time before signing an agreement.
11. Are you willing to suggest an early settlement conference?
Reaching an agreement early can save significant time and trauma. Ask if your lawyer is willing to commit to a face-to-face settlement conference once financial data is shared.
12. Are you familiar with the opposing counsel?
Knowing the opposing lawyer’s reputation for settlement efforts versus litigation can help your attorney anticipate their strategy.
13. How do you approach case preparation?
Many lawyers wait until the last minute to think about trial. Our unique approach is to prepare every contested matter as if it will be presented to a judge from day one. This ensures better results and stronger leverage during settlement negotiations.
14. Do you offer flat-rate pricing?
Predictable pricing simplifies your planning. We offer flat rates for uncontested divorces, premarital agreements, and specific legal tasks in litigated matters.
15. How much trial experience do you have?
This is the most critical question. Many family law attorneys have never actually tried a case. Galen Gentry has over 30 years of experience and has undertaken 43 family law trials—more trial experience than most competitors undertake in an entire career. Trial experience allows an attorney to accurately predict outcomes and make realistic settlement offers.
Schedule Your Free 30-Minute Strategy Session
Don’t navigate your family law matter alone. Benefit from over three decades of trial-tested experience and a preeminent legal rating.
Contact Galen Gentry today to schedule your free 30-minute strategy session or call (310) 282-7521.