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There is a reason why lawyers offer initial consultations! When you have a family law issue and meet with an attorney, we understand that you may leave the consultation with the sense that this particular lawyer isn’t the right fit for you—and that’s completely fine. We may meet with clients we like and empathize with, but we may know that our legal skill set isn’t what they need.
We point this out because it may take a little time for an attorney and a client to align. After all, they come from different backgrounds and have unique perspectives. For example, some family law attorneys have handled over 1000 divorces, but it could be the client’s first (and hopefully last) one. However, even people with no experience with divorce still have preconceived notions about the process they’ve gathered through television or conversations with others who have gone through it. This is never more apparent than when we receive the following question during a consultation:
So, What’s Your Win Rate?
There’s no way to answer this question because there is no objective way to define a “win” in a family law case. There are too many different variables to consider. You must divide your assets, handle debts, work through custody, determine alimony and child support, and outline a parenting plan. Though there are more pieces to consider, it is essential to note that you may not get everything you want in the exact way you want it. If your spouse demands that they keep the house and have full custody of the children even though you are a fit and responsible parent, those requests will not likely be met. When that happens, your spouse may only be upset with some results. Unlike criminal cases, family law doesn’t lend itself to being categorized by wins and losses.
A Lawyer’s Perspective on Litigation
Clients may arrive at their initial consultation with a road map in mind. They envision the divorce process from beginning to end and assume that, eventually, everyone will stand before a judge so an outcome can be determined. (This scenario may be why so many people are justifiably concerned about wins and losses.)
Shift your perspective. Very few family law cases need to escalate to requiring a judge’s intervention. Litigation is a last resort, and there are several reasons why you should try to avoid it. When you have to go to trial, we will begin working months before your trial date. We prepare each client, witness, and document. In many ways, a trial will consume your life. Think about that scenario of you and your spouse in a courtroom waiting for a judge to give their verdict. Judges may take weeks or months to digest the information and facts before coming to a conclusion.
Take Control with the Support of ZafiroLaw
When you go to court, you allow someone else to determine the outcome. Take control of your life and divorce by resolving your family law issues through discussion, negotiation, and even mediation. And always remember that as attorneys, we are here to lead you through this! If you have a family law matter that you would like to discuss with an attorney, contact ZafiroLaw to schedule your consultation.
