If you need divorce attorneys, chances are you’ve already started your epic quest for the right representation for the particular case. It is never an easy time to file such a motion, and we are not here to make light of it in any way.

Instead, we want to ask some of the more effective questions you can present to divorce attorneys to gauge how they work, their compatibility with your own sensitivities, and whether you’re confident they’re representing you.

In cases involving family disruption, there are always matters that require finesse and understanding, especially of your representation, which should keep you and your interests calm throughout the ordeal.

This article discusses some of the key questions you should be asking during your first meeting with divorce attorneys — and why they’re so important for you to feel a sense of relief about the events ahead.

1. What do I need to provide to initially submit a dossier?

A common question many divorce attorneys get, and one that should always be on the brink of conversation with potential representation. Preparation is key in situations like this and with some essential requirements such as a copy of the marriage certificate, there can be a wait to receive it.

If children are involved, there are additional documents required to make the submission official, as well as any additional indirect documentation (ie, citizenship certificate if applicable) that may also be required. Asking divorce attorneys this question is an excellent starting point, as you will gain insight into how quickly they are able to provide basic knowledge about family matters and measure their communication skills.

2. How much experience do you have with family law?

Although direct, this question can give you a lot of information about divorce attorneys and the way they work, and their suitability for your case. Often you come across a lot of so called experts who don’t have much experience in the field at all, we tend to see it more with theory based divorce lawyers who may have studied a lot but not put their experience into practice.

3. How long will my case take?

Determining the honesty and openness of divorce attorneys can be tricky, especially considering that verbal nuance is what they are experts at. While you certainly won’t get a concrete answer from divorce attorneys that are worth the time and money, the way they respond will tell you how empathetic they can be and whether you feel good with them as representatives.

After all, an overconfident but inauthentic rep will not always have the best interests in mind, while an empathetic and understanding rep will be more honest and candid in explaining the details of the case.

4. Do you have experience with mediation?

The mediation side of the equation is honestly one of the most important features you can find for successful divorce attorneys. This is because most cases of marriage breakdown take place in a mediation environment, where both parties will (hopefully) civilly discuss and compromise the various assets and issues that need to be resolved for the application to be successful.

By asking this question of your prospective divorce attorneys, you can understand where their true strength lies with regard to your upcoming case.