15 Questions to Ask a Divorce Lawyer During Your Consultation

Going through a divorce is never easy. It’s a time filled with uncertainty, emotions, and difficult decisions that can impact your future for years. One of the most important choices you’ll make during this process is selecting the right lawyer to guide you.

At Jackman Law Firm, we understand how deeply personal these cases are. Since 2014, we’ve helped families in Washington find clarity and protection in the face of divorce, custody disputes, and financial challenges. Having the right legal team in your corner can make all the difference, and that starts with asking the right questions during your initial consultation.

To help you feel more prepared, we’ve compiled 15 essential questions to ask a divorce lawyer before making your decision.

Experience and Approach

An attorney with the right experience and legal strategy can make a big difference in your case. Here are a few key questions to help you understand their background and approach.

1. How many years of experience do you have handling divorce cases, specifically in Washington?

Divorce laws vary by state, and Washington has unique regulations that can impact your case. You’ll want to work with a lawyer who has extensive experience handling divorces in Washington courts. Ask how long they’ve been practicing family law in the state and whether they have experience with cases similar to yours. A lawyer familiar with local judges and courts can offer valuable insight into how your case might proceed.

2. What is your approach to handling divorce cases? Do you prefer settlement or litigation, and how do you tailor your strategy to each client’s situation?

Every divorce is different. Some cases are resolved through mediation, while others require aggressive litigation. Understanding how a lawyer approaches divorce cases can help determine if they align with your goals. Ask if they focus on negotiation to reach amicable settlements or if they’re prepared to take your case to court if needed. A good divorce lawyer will explain how they adapt their approach based on the details of each client’s case.

3. How many cases similar to mine have you handled, and what were the general outcomes?

While no attorney can guarantee a result, knowing they have successfully handled cases like yours can give you peace of mind. Ask about past cases with similar financial issues, custody disputes, or high-conflict divorces. Their answers can help you gauge their ability to handle the challenges you’re facing.

Case-Specific Questions

Every divorce has unique challenges. These questions will help you understand how the lawyer will handle your specific concerns.

4. Will you be the primary attorney working on my case, or will other lawyers be involved? If so, what are their roles and experience?

Some firms assign multiple attorneys and paralegals to a case, while others work on a more personal level. It’s important to know if you’ll be communicating directly with your lawyer or if much of your case will be handled by associates. If other attorneys or staff will be involved, ask about their experience and how much input they’ll have in your case.

5. What are the main legal issues or complexities you see in my case, and what specific actions should I take or avoid to benefit my case?

Divorce involves many moving parts—assets, debts, child custody, and support arrangements. Your lawyer should be able to pinpoint key challenges and offer initial guidance. They can also advise on actions that could help or hurt your case, such as financial decisions, communication with your spouse, or social media use.

6. What are the realistic potential outcomes of my case, and what are the possible risks and challenges I should be aware of?

A good lawyer won’t sugarcoat things. They should provide an honest assessment of what to expect, including best- and worst-case scenarios. Discussing potential risks upfront can help you prepare for what’s ahead and make informed decisions.

7. How would a judge in my jurisdiction likely rule on the key issues in my case, and why?

Judges often have different approaches to custody, asset division, and spousal support. A lawyer with local experience will have insight into how specific judges handle cases like yours. This information can help shape your legal strategy and expectations.

Communication and Case Management

Clear and timely communication is essential during a divorce. Make sure you understand how your lawyer will keep you informed.

8. How often will you communicate with me about my case, and what methods of communication do you use (e.g., email, phone calls, text messages, client portal)?

Clear and consistent communication is essential during a divorce. You’ll want to know how often you can expect updates and whether the lawyer is accessible by phone, email, or other methods. Some firms also use online portals for case updates.

9. What is your preferred method of communication, and how quickly can I expect a response to my inquiries?

Every lawyer has a different communication style. Some respond to emails within a few hours, while others may take a couple of days. Ask about their typical response time so you have realistic expectations about when you’ll hear back.

10. How will I be kept informed of deadlines, court appearances, and other important developments in my case?

You don’t want to miss a critical deadline because you weren’t informed. Your lawyer should have a clear process for updating you on upcoming hearings, required documents, and other important steps in your case.

Financial Considerations

Divorce can be costly, so it’s important to understand legal fees upfront. These questions will help you get a clear picture of what to expect.

11. What are your fees, and how will you charge me? Do you offer fixed fees or work on a billable hour model? Can you provide a detailed breakdown of potential costs?

Some lawyers charge by the hour, while others offer fixed rates for certain services. Ask for a breakdown of legal fees and additional costs that may arise.

12. What is your retainer fee, and how does it work? Are there any circumstances under which the retainer might need to be replenished?

Many attorneys require an upfront retainer before starting work on a case. Ask how the retainer is used, what happens if it runs out, and whether you’ll receive any unused portion back if your case resolves quickly.

13. Are there any additional costs I should be aware of, such as court filing fees, expert witness fees, or other expenses?

Legal fees aren’t the only costs in a divorce. Filing fees, expert witnesses, and other expenses can add up. Understanding these potential costs ahead of time can help you plan financially.

Strategy and Process

Your lawyer’s approach to resolving disputes can impact your case outcome. These questions help you understand their strategy.

14. What strategies do you use to resolve conflicts, especially if your spouse is uncooperative? Do you have experience with mediation or collaborative divorce, and are these options I should consider?

Some divorces are amicable, while others are contentious. Your lawyer should have a plan for handling difficult situations. If you want to settle out of court, ask about mediation or collaborative divorce as potential options.

15. Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients with similar situations to mine?

A good lawyer will have satisfied clients willing to vouch for their work. While privacy laws may prevent them from sharing names, they should be able to provide general testimonials or references.

Ready to Discuss Your Divorce? Contact Jackman Law Firm Today

Jackman Law Firm is committed to providing strong legal support for clients facing divorce and family law issues in Washington. Since 2014, we’ve worked hard to protect our clients’ rights and help them move forward with confidence.

If you’re ready to discuss your situation, we’re here to listen. Call us today at 206-558-5555 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.