Five Signs a Divorce Attorney is Not a Good Fit

 Posted on June 25, 2025 in Divorce

Some people may believe that choosing a divorce attorney is as simple as typing in "divorce attorney in my area" on Google and choosing the first one that pops up. After all, one divorce attorney is much like the next, right? While it would make choosing a divorce attorney easier if this were true, in fact, it is not.

Having a divorce attorney who fully understands your needs, communicates clearly, and advocates fiercely on your behalf can make a difference in the outcome of your divorce. Not every divorce attorney will be a good fit for you and your unique situation. Recognizing the signs that a divorce attorney may not be the right fit for you early in the process can save you time and stress.

It can also save you from dealing with unfavorable results. If you are facing the uncertainty of divorce, it can be very beneficial to speak to an experienced Wheaton, IL divorce attorney from The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C. to discuss your divorce goals.

Choosing a Divorce Attorney

When facing divorce, many people seek attorney recommendations from family, friends, or coworkers who have gone through a divorce. They may also look online for local divorce attorneys, choose several that seem like good candidates, and speak with each of them before making a decision.

While choosing an attorney who has significant experience in family law issues like divorce is important, how comfortable you feel with the attorney can be just as important. After all, you are going to be sharing some of the most personal details of your life, so trusting your divorce attorney is essential.   

What if You Are Experiencing "Buyer’s Remorse" After Choosing a Divorce Attorney?

There are times when the divorce attorney you chose simply turns out not to be the best fit. The reasons for that could be one or more of the following:

There is a Lack of Clear, Effective Communication

Communicating with your divorce attorney is extremely important and is the cornerstone of a successful attorney-client relationship. If your attorney is consistently difficult to reach, fails to return your calls or emails for weeks on end, or does not keep you updated on the status of your divorce, this should be a red flag.

If your questions are met with vague responses, then the attorney may not have a solid handle on your divorce. Perhaps the attorney is overloaded, constantly shuffling between multiple cases without giving yours the attention it deserves. If you are unable to get the support you need within a reasonable amount of time, it could be time to change course.

Your Divorce Attorney is Offering Unrealistic Promises

It is important to understand that, where divorces are concerned, much of the outcome is determined by statute. While the judge certainly has some discretion, many divorce issues are fairly predictable.

If your divorce attorney promises that your spouse will receive limited or no parenting time, that you will get most of the marital assets, or that you will absolutely be awarded spousal support, watch out.

Guaranteeing certain outcomes before all the facts are known is unrealistic. Each case is unique and depends on the judge, opposing counsel, specific circumstances, and Illinois statutes.  

You Notice Poor Case Strategy or Preparation

Every attorney can be caught unaware regarding an issue that was not relayed to the attorney, but by and large, divorce attorneys should be prepared for most issues. Your divorce attorney should have a clear plan in place for your divorce, and there should be no lack of knowledge regarding divorce specifics.

Missing important deadlines is a clear red flag and one you should take seriously. Missed deadlines suggest the attorney is not well-organized or fully committed to your case. Consistent tardiness is also something to consider. In some cases, this shows a lack of respect for you as a client or for the court system in general.

You Feel There is a Lack of Transparency Regarding Fees

Perhaps your divorce attorney pressured you to pay a large fee upfront without the benefit of a detailed agreement. Maybe you are seeing unexpected or unclear billing practices, or there was no real discussion about what you could expect as far as costs. Legal fees during a divorce can add up quickly.

You should have a clear understanding as to whether your divorce attorney is charging a flat fee (and what that includes or excludes) or an hourly rate, and what your initial retainer will cover. A divorce attorney who is on the up and up will have no trouble discussing costs with you. There should be no vague billing practices, no unclear retainer agreements, and no hidden fees that are not disclosed upfront.

You Notice Some Incidents of Unethical Behavior

Obviously, unethical behavior from your divorce attorney should never go unaddressed. If your divorce attorney has encouraged you to lie or withhold information or seems to be making "under-the-table" deals, beware. Divorce is a legal process that requires divorce attorneys to uphold the law and follow ethical guidelines. In some cases, a divorce attorney could have a relationship with your spouse or the opposing counsel that could impact your case.

If so, this is a conflict of interest, and you should change attorneys. Any time a divorce attorney suggests that you hide assets or misrepresent facts, you have chosen the wrong attorney. Keep in mind that this is not a common occurrence among divorce attorneys. The vast majority of divorce attorneys will uphold the law and act in an ethical manner.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Divorce Lawyer

Even the most professional, ethical, experienced divorce attorney might not be the right attorney for you. If you find this to be the case, simply say that to your attorney directly and honestly. At The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C., we hope that you will give us a chance to speak to you about your divorce. We believe that once you do, you will see that we can help you through this difficult time in the best possible way.

An experienced, compassionate Wheaton, IL divorce attorney is waiting to answer your questions and be your advocate throughout your divorce. As one of the most prestigious law firms in the area, we believe we have all the necessary resources and skills you need. Call 630-462-9500 today to schedule your initial attorney meeting.