Experience & Background

☐ What is your current caseload
☐ What is your experience with cases involving:
  ☐ Domestic violence
  ☐ Child abuse allegations
  ☐ High-conflict co-parenting
  ☐ Financial imbalance between parents
☐ Have you handled cases similar to mine? What were the outcomes?

Case Strategy & Expectations

☐ What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
☐ What outcomes are realistically achievable?
☐ What strategy would you recommend in my situation?
☐ What safeguards can be put in place to protect my child?
☐ How do judges in this area typically handle cases like mine?

Timeline & Process

☐ What are the next immediate steps in my case?
☐ What is the expected timeline for key milestones?
☐ How far in advance do you prepare for hearings?
☐ Will there be temporary orders before a final decision?

Costs & Billing

☐ What is your retainer fee?
☐ What is your hourly rate?
☐ How quickly is the retainer typically used?
☐ What is the estimated total cost for a case like mine?
☐ Do you charge for:
  ☐ Emails
  ☐ Phone calls
  ☐ Text messages
☐ What is your billing increment (e.g., 6 minutes, 15 minutes)?
☐ Are there additional costs (filing fees, experts, evaluations)?

Communication & Availability

☐ What is the best way to contact you?
☐ How quickly do you typically respond?
☐ Will I be communicating with you or your staff?
☐ How often should I expect updates on my case?

Court Approach & Advocacy

☐ How do you handle high-conflict opposing parties?
☐ How do you present concerns about child safety to the court?
☐ What is your approach to negotiation vs. litigation?
☐ Are you comfortable going to trial if necessary?

Client Expectations

☐ What do you expect from me as a client?
☐ How can I best support my case?
☐ What should I avoid doing during my case?

Final Considerations

☐ Do I feel heard and understood?
☐ Is the attorney realistic, not just telling me what I want to hear?
☐ Do I feel comfortable communicating with them?
☐ Do their answers align with my goals and concerns?