Tips from a Judge on Finding the Right Attorney
Attorney Randy Powers shares Judge Kass’ perspective regarding effective legal representation.
Good Divorce Lawyers Tell You Bad News
by Honorable Anne Kass. Ann Kass is a District Judge in the Second Judicial District State of New Mexico
I have heard people who are thinking
about getting a divorce say, “I want the meanest, toughest attorney I can find. I want a fighter.” I always shudder and say that a fighter is the last thing anyone should want in a lawyer.
Fighter-attorneys may make a client feel good as they harass and humiliate the other spouse, but fighter-attorneys cost tons of money and they always make things worse–for both parties.
So, what are the characteristics of a good lawyer in divorce cases?
First, the hallmark of a good lawyer is that he or she will tell a client things the client does not want to hear. A good lawyer gives clients bad news.
In divorce cases there is always a good deal of bad news to be given.
–There will not be enough money to maintain the standard of living the family is used to.
–Often the family residence will have to be sold.
–Each parent will spend less time with the children because there will be a second home in which the children will spend time.
–The children may begin to misbehave or do poorly in school or exhibit other unfortunate problems, which will consume more time, energy and possibly money to pay counselors to try to solve.
The list of bad news goes on and on. The fighter-attorney fails to warn the client–allows, or even encourages, the client to hold on to unrealistic expectations. The good lawyer does not.
Clients sometimes say to a lawyer who tells them what they do not want to hear, “Whose side are you on anyway?” But a good lawyer is on the client’s side when they explain reality.
Another sign of good lawyers is that they get along with one another. They are courteous to one another, and they are able to trust one another. They exchange information promptly. They cooperate. Fighter-attorneys do all sorts of stuff to aggravate the other side, which may provide a perverse kind of pleasure while it is happening, but in the end, non-cooperation between lawyers generates enormous legal fees and it increases the bitter feelings between the parties which ultimately damages their lives and the lives of their children. People who hire fighter-attorneys can expect a scorched-earth result. They are often surprised to discover they themselves have to live on that scorched earth.
Divorcing couples are wise to hire lawyers who are peace-makers and problem-solvers. Look for a lawyer who has gone to the trouble of getting mediation training, and watch out for attorneys who do not tell you things you do not want to hear.
“Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value I had a great experience at Batley Riley Family Law. They assisted me with my case. They were excellent and ensured that my case was handled as efficiently as possible and always made me feel informed. This firm helped me through a stressful time. Would absolutely recommend this law firm.”
J. A.
“Thanks for everything yesterday! I had a very informative and meaningful consultation with Batley Riley Family Law. I can tell that they are compassionate and strong which I admire in a law firm. Their firm has written a great book on New Mexico Divorce Law and they had recommendations for books to help my kids in this process! Thanks for the great gifts as well. I look forward to working with them in the process that lies ahead.”
M.F.
“Bobbie Batley is unquestionably the top family lawyer in New Mexico, largely because of the amazing team she leads. This firm cares about their clients, and puts those needs out front. I will never hesitate to refer to this firm!”
E.K.
“Batley Riley Family Law is an excellent place to work. I enjoy coming in everyday. It is clear to see how much our attorneys value New Mexican families. They work their hardest to advocate for their clients on a daily basis.”
K. W.
“Batley Riley Family Law provided me with excellent advice and service to effectively and efficiently resolve an issue with my best interests in mind. They did this with a great deal of compassion. I would highly recommend this firm.”
E. F.
“It became very clear, VERY fast that having a respected legal team in the community makes all the difference. Despite the craziness of my case, they were cool, calm and collected every step of the way. What struck me about this team was how they connect on a human level – they truly saw me for the person that I am and that resonated in the courts. I got everything I asked for and more – If it wasn’t for this team, I don’t know where I’d be right now.”
J.C.
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