By Jake Hornstein, Our Children Have Rights.Org (OCHR)
Choosing the RIGHT ATTORNEY while Establishing Child Custody
At OCHR, a common mistake that we encounter is a parent who wasn’t strategic when they committed to an attorney. Understandably, some circumstances force a sense of urgency, leaving little time to perform proper due diligence. Part of our mission is to better educate, equip and prepare parents to achieve a successful outcome more seamlessly. Even if time is of the essence, we hope this article can help be the difference between making the right decision(s) and avoiding costly mistakes.
Be strategic by considering these key factors:
1. Retain a reputable attorney who regularly practices family law
Choose an attorney who specializes in family law, specifically Custody Law. Family Law may be one of many practice areas of the attorney. Make sure it’s their specialty. Ask these questions – How much of your practice is family law, specifically custody law? How many cases have you done? What were the outcomes? What kind of custody arrangement do you believe is most beneficial for children? Can you provide references from parents you’ve represented?
2. Retain an attorney who regularly practices in the county of your court case
They’ll have existing relationships with courts and judges. Making them more familiar with decision making tendencies. And more likely to have an established rapport. Select an attorney who will be performing on their home turf. This may also lower ancillary costs (ex: limited travel expenses).
3. Retain an attorney who will work for YOU
We often engage with parents who reach out for help “finding an attorney who will take my case.” Bad mindset. You are hiring an attorney to work for YOU, not the other way around.
Ask the attorney questions…
- Will you lead in my preparation and help me understand the laws?
- Will you personally handle my case and be my primary contact?
- What is the best way to contact you, and how long should I (generally) expect a response?
Now ask yourself…
- Was he/she receptive to my questions?
- Were they even listening?
- Did the attorney point out any nuances of my case that I hadn’t thought of myself?
- Legal Aid can be extremely expensive. So, remember, the attorney works for YOU, on behalf of your children.
OCHR is a Pinellas based nonprofit that helps parents more seamlessly navigate their child custody and co-parenting journeys, at no cost to the family. We were recently recognized with the AMPLIFY Clearwater “Community Spirit Award.” Support of our mission is vital, and we kindly ask our community to consider a financial contribution to our mission.
Most importantly, if you, or someone you know, needs our assistance, we’re here for you. We’re on a mission… A mission to protect the rights of children to have access to both responsible parents by providing education, resources, and support services for successful co-parenting.
Why? Because Our Children Have Rights.
Contact Jake at JakeHornstein@OurChildrenHaveRights.com or visit www.OCHR.org.
