There are many rules that govern the attorney-client relationship, which are set forth in the California Rules of Professional Responsibility and the California Business and Professions Code. Some expectations are appropriate; others are not. Here is an overview of what you can and cannot expect of your lawyer.
Having the assistance of a skilled lawyer during your divorce will give you the security of having someone on your side who knows what to do. Furthermore, you will have someone you can talk to in confidence about your situation and how best to deal with it.
As lawyers, we provide a variety of specific services for our clients going through a divorce. These services include:
- Consulting and advising you
- Educating you about the law and facts
- Devising and carrying out case strategy
- Investigating the law and the facts
- Preparing and reviewing documents
- Negotiating a settlement
- Preparing and filing all necessary court papers
- Preparing you to testify
- Preparing other witnesses to testify
- Hiring experts and appraisers
- Conducting discovery
- Responding to discovery initiated by your spouse
- Preparing for court appearances including trial
- Conducting trials and hearings
- Advising you about what to expect
- Advising you on conduct and alternatives
- Taking the heat for tough decisions