Divorce proceedings can be complex, especially when it comes to issues like child custody. Such proceedings could also be emotionally challenging for the parties involved. To ease this process, it’s advisable to hire a trustworthy child custody attorney. However, finding the right lawyer for the job can be overwhelming, especially if one doesn’t know where to start. That said, here are seven tips to find a reliable child custody lawyer.

Ask for references
One of the best resources for couples seeking information on a reasonable child custody attorney is to seek references from others. They can start by asking family and close friends if they know any good lawyers with expertise in child custody. One could also consult clerks at the court office and inquire with other parents who may have cases at the child support office. Also note that the state bar association may be able to provide referrals, and some courts may have a network of attorneys depending on the person’s state of residence.

Check the level of experience
Before hiring an attorney for child custody, a single parent should interview the professional to determine their level of experience. The parent should check if the attorney has experience handling and winning the specific type of custody case and the number of hours it would take to reach a verdict. One could hire an attorney licensed to practice in the state to represent the individual in a child custody case. However, they might benefit from hiring a lawyer focusing on child custody and family law cases.

Read reviews
When searching for a child custody lawyer, one of the easiest ways to assess their suitability for a specific case is by checking online reviews from current and former clients over the past years. These reviews can provide valuable insights into what a child custody attorney has achieved with other clients. Lawyers with a successful track record of winning cases in the past are more likely to win the case at hand.

Determine compatibility
When it comes to hiring a lawyer, particularly in cases related to child custody, it’s essential to understand that it’s not just about paying the fee to get the job done. While an attorney’s job description might seem impressive on paper, it’s important to feel a level of comfort when discussing the case with them in person. This will help in discussing the case proceedings and other details related to the case more conveniently. It’s crucial to keep in mind that the attorney should put in the required effort to earn the client’s trust and confidence.

Hire an expert with integrity
A child custody case is a sensitive matter. The behavior of the attorney can have a significant impact on the life of a child. Therefore, it is essential for parents going through a custody case to hire a professional with integrity in their work. One must look for experts who are transparent, honest, and work in good faith. One can usually determine whether the attorney is honest and upfront after meeting them for an interview.

Look for accessibility
While an attorney may check all the boxes, it is important to determine how accessible they are. The lawyer must have the time and resources to handle the case. For example, if the lawyer cannot be at a particular place when needed, they are not the ideal fit. The expert should also be able to take calls and emails or respond to the client promptly. It is important to ask the lawyer a few questions before proceeding with a case. These may include the names of the people who will be working on the case, the best way to contact them, and the expected response time. Additionally, it is crucial to make sure that both the lawyer and the party are on the same page regarding the details of the case.

Determine the fees
One should bear in mind that several factors go into a child custody proceeding, including the costs. The cost of legal proceedings is directly proportional to their complexity and duration. For instance, a straightforward case involving divorcing parents resolving physical custody disputes may incur moderate expenses. The exact fees would depend on the lawyer’s charges, filing fees, and any additional costs incurred, such as hiring specialists or experts. The anticipated cost could range from $1,000 to over $5,000. In contrast, a complicated case where one parent is unwilling to share custody may require the lawyer to spend more hours than expected, resulting in an increase in the final fees.