What Resources are Available to Help You Find the Best Divorce, Paternity or Legal Separation Lawyer in San Diego in 2014 for You?

The word “best” means different things to different people. This is especially true when the word is applied to an attorney who represents spouses and parents in family law court in San Diego for a legal separation, divorce or paternity case. Is the best is one who will return their calls same day or next business day and communicate with them and keep them informed? Is the best one who is the most knowledgeable for their issues? For some, being able to go to their attorneys office to meet with their attorney when needed which is convenient with free parking and an elevator is very important. For some, a rating with the San Diego BBB is the best indicator and for others whether the attorney has positive reviews on google and other search engines or negative reviews on search engines including google may influence whether this is the best for criteria. For others, the length of time of practice of the attorney and where the attorney practices and their credentials and accomplishments and awards and certifications defines the best attorney. For all, the definition of best should include, at a minimum, that the attorney is a fiduciary for the client and puts the client’s interests ahead of all others including the attorney’s financial interests. In addition, for all, best should be that [in the beginning, middle and end of the case] your expectations for legal services and legal fees are exceeded if possible under California law.

Many family law attorneys in San Diego charge an hourly rate. This rate varies by attorney. In addition, many attorneys use paralegals and staff and the hourly rate is also different by law firm and by attorneys. Costs can also be very significant and many law firms charge postage, parking, mileage, copying and fax to the client in addition to the hourly rate. In addition, pleadings will need to be filed and many law firms also charge for the service of filing whether doing it in house or using an attorney service. The best for you financially will be an attorney or firm which does not charge you for as many of these costs as possible as this will save hundreds, and perhaps even thousands, of extra money on top of the legal fee itself.

This is crucial to choose the best attorney for you. Before the consultation, one suggestion is that you prepare a list of your legal goals and any questions as many times it is easy to forget since all are nervous during this time. Ask the attorney if your expectations are realistic. Or what the attorney believes are realistic expectations. No attorney can make a guarantee of the outcome of any case as they are not the decision maker. No matter the education, experience and training of the attorney, you will not feel the attorney is the best for you if you do not obtain your goals if this is your expectation.

Does best include a free in-person or virtual consultation which is confidential whether you hire or not with an attorney and not a staff member? Does best include no costs for parking, postage, mileage, copying [in office] or fax while a client? Does best include no charge for routine San Diego Superior Court filings while a client? Doppelt and Forney, APLC does not claim to be the best but will do their best to exceed your expectations for fees and services.