Finding an Attorney

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Finding an attorney who knows how to handle cases involving people who suffer from personality disorders is crucial. This article explores some of the things you should consider if you are looking for an attorney.

Separating from a boyfriend or girlfriend may be quite straightforward - a simple personal decision on your part backed up with a resolve not to get hoovered back.

But if you are married or have children with the person you are leaving, you are embarking on much more than just a personal journey. The decisions you make and the actions you take have will have profound consequences on the personal, economic and legal status of the person you are leaving as well as any children involved.

There are laws in most developed countries that govern what you can and can't do when it comes to other people. The applicable laws vary significantly from country to country and state to state. therefore it is strongly recommended that you consult with a local, reputable lawyer before you make any major decisions.

It is generally recommended that you should consult with 3 different attorneys before selecting one. Most reputable attorneys will expect you to shop around and be willing to meet with you for an hour to discuss your case. Some will charge you for this and some will waive the initial interview charge. This may seem expensive but finding the right attorney is almost guaranteed to save you a lot of money in the long run.

10 things to look for in an attorney:

A good attorney:

  1. Takes the time to answer your questions. Does not have a long line in their waiting room when you arrive for your appointment.
  2. Returns phone calls in a timely manner
  3. Treats you with respect and courtesy. Is willing to discuss all the issues that concern you
  4. Is able to explain the process, the "next steps" and you options in a way that you can understand
  5. Does not unnecessarily pressure you into doing anything that you are uncomfortable with.
  6. Is qualified to do the job. Has all the appropriate local certifications an licenses.
  7. Has a thorough understanding of local laws, local jurisdictions and judges including how they may affect you.
  8. Has a good reputation and rapport with other local attorneys. Speaks respectfully of other attorneys in the area whom you may be considering going to.
  9. Seeks to obtain the most just outcome - not just winning your case.
  10. Is the kind of person whom you would comfortably invite into your home for a meal.

10 things to avoid in an attorney

An attorney you should avoid...

  1. Does not take the time to answer your questions. Has a long line in their waiting room when you arrive for your appointment.
  2. Does not return phone calls in a timely manner
  3. Does not treat you with respect and courtesy. Is not willing to discuss things that concern you
  4. Is unable or unwilling to explain the process, the "next steps" and your options in a way that you can understand.
  5. Pressures you into doing something that you are uncomfortable with.
  6. Is not qualified to do the job. Does not have the appropriate local requisite certifications an licenses.
  7. Demonstrates little understanding of local laws, local judges and how they may affect you.
  8. Does not have a good reputation and rapport with other local attorneys. Speaks disrespectfully of other attorneys in the area whom you may be considering going to.
  9. Seeks to win rather than to obtain the most just outcome for all parties concerned.
  10. Is NOT the kind of person whom you would comfortably invite into your home for a meal.