Deciding to end your marriage may be one of the most difficult decisions you ever have to make. If you're not sure whether to file for divorce, have questions about the financial implications of a dissolution, or if you've decided your marriage is over and that it's time to take action, having an experienced and compassionate advocate on your side is critical to your peace of mind, and to ensuring the best possible outcome for you and your family.
If you're trying to choose the best Florida divorce attorney for you, you may be feeling some uncertainty. Based on conversations I've had with my Central Florida divorce clients, I've put together a list of questions people frequently ask when coming to me for family law services.
How much does a divorce cost?
Because every case is unique, there is no "one-size-fits-all" cost for a divorce. In some cases, the parties agree on all the details concerning the end of their marriage, so an agreement is prepared and filed, and no court appearance is required. Other times, the parties cannot agree on much of anything. In that case, various motions and temporary orders must be filed and significantly more court involvement is required. The complexity of the case, in terms of how much the parties agree on as well as the division of marital assets, and whether or not minor children are involved, will all impact the cost of the divorce.
What makes a good divorce lawyer?
When choosing the best Central Florida divorce attorney for you, you need to find a lawyer you can trust, with whom you feel comfortable, who has the experience to handle the issues that will arise in your case, and who has your best interests at heart. Initially, many people think they want the aggressive "bulldog" lawyer. As a former Prosecutor, I can certainly be that type of attorney, if and when the need arises. But just as important, people often find that they need a compassionate and caring advocate who understands the difficulty of what they are going through. At Jody Fisher Law, we are small enough to offer that caring, compassionate atmosphere, and have the experience to vigorously and aggressively assert and protect your rights. I understand that during a family law matter, tension and emotions run high, and that simple disagreements can quickly escalate to heated courtroom battles. I can be the calm in the storm, guiding you through negotiations and offering advice that will have an impact for years to come.
How do you handle phone calls? Will I talk to you, or a receptionist? What if you're out of the office?
When you hire Leesburg, Florida divorce attorney Jody L. Fisher, you can expect competent, experienced, compassionate legal representation from a lawyer you can trust. Because I understand that divorce is a stressful time, I make every effort to answer your call when it comes in. Of course, there are times when I am not available due to court appearances or meetings with other clients. That's why I have a receptionist on staff to answer your questions if I'm not available. They will let me know you called, and I will return your call as quickly as possible, usually within 1 business day.
Have you handled cases like this before?
In practice since 2002 and handling family law cases since 2006, divorce and family law make up the bulk of my practice. A former Prosecutor, I am no stranger to high-stakes negotiation and litigation, and know that trial can be a stressful, expensive process. Therefore, I make every effort to avoid going to trial if at all possible. However, rest assured that if the parties cannot come to a reasonable agreement, I have the experience and tenacity to vigorously assert your rights, and will take your case to trial, if necessary.
What do you think is the most important part of the attorney-client relationship?
The foundation of the attorney-client relationship is trust. The nature of the divorce process will inevitably require that we discuss personal, sensitive, and confidential details of your life and your relationship. As your attorney, I owe you duties of loyalty and confidentiality. When choosing a lawyer, it is imperative that you hire an attorney with whom you are comfortable, and who has your best interests at heart.
Are there special considerations for retirees who are getting divorced?
Living and working in Central Florida, many of my clients are retirees who have unique needs. Whereas divorce at age 45 may focus more on child support and visitation schedules, divorce after 65 typically focuses more on estate planning and making sure my clients have enough money to continue to live comfortably after divorce. In Florida, divorcing retirees often present the unique challenge of a spouse in another state, a couple who only resides in Florida part of the year, or significant marital assets in other states. As a Central Florida divorce attorney, these are legal issues on which I routinely counsel my clients.
Do you work with retirees in "The Villages"?
I have counseled people in and around The Villages for years. I understand that you have questions and concerns about your emotional and financial future, and I'm here to help. Contact me for answers to your questions. I will calmly, persuasively, and aggressively assert and defend your rights throughout the divorce, and will be with you throughout all of the divorce proceedings. Frequently working with people in and around The Villages, I respect your privacy and will maintain total confidentiality.