To save money and get the most out of working with your divorce lawyer, stay organized, consolidate your questions, prepare for meetings, be efficient with your communications, and treat the process with respect and honesty. Your time is valuable, so use it wisely.
When you hire a lawyer for divorce or family law matters, your time with them is valuable. The way you prepare and communicate will make a big difference in how your case moves forward. Here are 10 practical ways to work better with your lawyer and save money in the process.
1. Consolidate Your Questions
Instead of sending several emails throughout the week, keep a running list of questions and send them in one message. This saves time for both you and your lawyer and reduces your billable hours.
2. Prepare for Meetings
Come to meetings with your lawyer with a clear agenda. If you are feeling overwhelmed, bring a trusted friend or family member who can:
- Take notes
- Help you stay focused
- Provide moral support
3. Keep Track of Everything
Create your own notes or journal to track:
- Questions you have asked
- The answers you have received
- Key decisions or next steps
This can prevent repeat questions (and repeat charges).
4. Check Your Motivations
Before asking your lawyer to act by sending a letter or filing a motion ask yourself:
- Is this helping to move the process forward?
- Is this driven by frustration, revenge or emotion?
Choosing your battles wisely helps reduce conflict, cost, and stress.
5. Don’t Constantly Check In
It is natural to want updates, but constant phone calls or emails asking, “Any news?” are not helpful. Your lawyer will contact you when there is something important to share.
6. Respond Quickly
When your lawyer asks for documents or answers, reply as soon as you can. This keeps your case on track and shows that you are serious about resolving matters.
7. Stay Respectful
Treat your lawyer, their staff, and even your former spouse’s lawyer with respect. Being kind doesn’t mean you are weak, it means you are professional. Respectful clients get better results and faster communication.
8. Use Time Wisely
If you are paying for a phone call, make sure it is a focused call. Avoid venting or storytelling unless it is directly relevant to your legal matter. That’s what friends, therapists, or support groups are for.
9. Be Honest
Tell your lawyer the full story, even the uncomfortable parts. Surprises can cost more than a little discomfort in your lawyer’s office.
10. Remember – You Are a Team
Your lawyer is here to help you. But like any team, results are best when both people work together with trust, clarity, and mutual respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be billed for every email or call?
In most cases, yes. Lawyers typically bill for the time they spend reviewing or responding to messages. Keeping communication concise and focused helps reduce costs.
What should I bring to my first consultation?
Bring a list of your main questions, any relevant documents, and a summary of the situation. This helps your lawyer understand your needs quickly.
Is it okay to bring someone to my meeting?
Yes, bringing a trusted friend or support person can be helpful, especially if you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed. Just make sure they understand the meeting is about your case—not theirs.
Marla S. Miller is a senior family lawyer with Miller Boileau Family Law Group in Edmonton, Alberta. With decades of legal experience, Marla is known for her thoughtful, clear, and practical approach to family law. She is a strong advocate for client empowerment through education and preparation.
If you’re preparing for a legal consultation and want to make the most of it, call Marla Miller today at 780-482-2888.
Early in her legal practice, influenced by her late uncle who was a Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench, Marla Miller, K.C. became a Family Law Mediator. She has been helping families through mediation for over 30 years. In 2001 she, along with Pierre Boileau, K.C. and others, was one of the founding members of the Association of Collaborative Professionals (Edmonton). She has been an active volunteer with that Association ever since.
One of the first Family and Divorce Lawyers in Edmonton to make a commitment to give up litigation as an option, Marla remains passionate about helping her clients settle outside of court by finding agreements that meet their needs and interests. As both a Registered Collaborative Family Lawyer and a Registered Family Mediator, Marla is one of the most experienced family Mediators in Edmonton.