If you and your ex-spouse cannot agree when it comes to the custody of your children, the issues usually end up being decided by the courts. According to the US Census Bureau report, there are 12.9 million custodial parents in the United States living with 21.9 million children below the age of 21 years. So how can you ensure that the matter gets decided fairly and in the best interests of your children? The best way would be to hire a reputable family custody lawyer. Here are some questions to ask.

1. What Is Your Approach?

Not every attorney focuses on family law. Additionally, not all family law attorneys take the same approach when it comes to custody cases. It's important to ask your lawyer how they approach custody cases before hiring them. Nothing is more important than your kids, so you have to know if the lawyer you are about to hire will do their best to advocate for your children's needs. Custody cases should be approached with compassion.

2. How Much Will the Case Cost Me?

While a family custody lawyer will not be able to provide you with a full breakdown of all the costs before the case is finalized, they can at least help you figure out if you can afford the case. It's crucial to remember that you will still need to take care of yourself and your children after the case, so you should budget accordingly. You can ask about the short and long-term financial effects of the custody case to find out if you can manage it.

3. Do You Have Experience With Cases Like Mine?

Working with a family custody lawyer who has dealt with similar cases will ensure that you have the skilled legal services you need. Not every family law case is the same. This is why you need someone with experience dealing with cases similar to yours. For instance, your case might involve child support and restraining orders. If that's the case, you need to be direct and honest during the consultation so that you get the best advice from your attorney. Being honest also enables you to see if you and the lawyer are a good fit.

Hiring a trustworthy family custody lawyer is crucial for your case. By doing the proper research and asking the right questions, you can put yourself in an advantageous position. If you need an expert family custody lawyer, contact our office today to learn more.