A divorce is almost always rough time for everybody involved, and having to seek out legal counsel often seems like just another burden to bear. Having the right family lawyer by your side during a divorce can make a huge difference in the way the proceedings play out, as well as what the end result looks like. So take a few moments to consider what is most important to you in a divorce attorney, and keep reading for some tips on choosing the best one.

Legal Specialty

Even within the fairly specific discipline of family law, there are lawyers who specialize in different areas. The first thing you'll want to do is take advantage of these specialties by finding a lawyer who has experience advocating for people who have handled situations like yours previously. For example, if you are a newly single man who wants to retain custody of his children, then you should seek out an attorney who has a history of representing fathers in court. On the other hand, if you're a woman who has been the victim of domestic abuse, having a lawyer who will immediately seek out aggressive legal ramifications is a must.

Problem Solving

Sometimes the best way to solve the problems inherent in a relationship aren't through a legal trial. Although many people might envision a dramatic trial when they think of divorce, the reality is that both parties are often more satisfied with the end result of the divorce process when mediation is involved. Searching out a lawyer who is an experienced mediator can yield huge benefits for both you and your former partner, as well as your children. For instance, the emotional toll will be substantially lower, and other facets of your life won't suffer nearly as much if you choose mediation over more dramatic measures. Of course, mediation isn't for everybody and every circumstance, but it can be a valuable tool to soften the blow of divorce.

Financial Expertise

One of the biggest concerns that both parties have during a divorce is, to put it bluntly, money. That's why it is best to find a family attorney who is comfortable with the financial aspects of divorce, and who won't hesitate to contact your accountant or financial adviser if you have one. This holds especially true if you need expert financial advice during the divorce with regard to bankruptcy, retirement, or estate planning.