If you are seeking to employ a divorce lawyer then things have obviously gone wrong in your relationship; ensure they have at least the following abilities: *Proficient in cases like this *Know how to take the correct approach *Be trustworthy You will need an attorney where at least fifty percent of their work is in this area and unless you're expecting problems, preferably one trained in divorce mediation that practices it professionally. However, none of this will be any good without your complete trust in their abilities.Attorneys that tend to follow the mediation route are good at giving settlement advice but you may need an attorney who is more familiar with courtroom settlements. Planning is all important and whilst there are things you need to prepare for, any contact with your divorce lawyer should be brief and to the point.Costs are always an issue so write down everything you want to ask and in a logical order always making sure there is an accurate record of times dates and the duration of conversations. As all costs relating to law and legal advice are costly, try not to visit them at the office unless absolutely necessary; this can be achieved by using the phone or mail.Regard your attorney as a resource, not someone you depend on for emotional support because they cost too much for you to use them for sympathy and consolation; besides, you have family and friends for that. Try always to stick to pertinent facts when speaking to your divorce lawyer, not general complaints about your spouse's behavior as this is just a waste of your money if use them as a sounding board.The most important aspect for you to get sorted out is the control of the situation which should be yours and then you will be able to use your lawyer more effectively. Your legal representative must be told up front that whilst his or her advice is essential, all decisions regarding the divorce will be made by you. You will need to instruct them to forward any information they have received to you and you expect a prompt reply to any issue you may raise.If money is an issue, it may be a preferable for you to only contact a lawyer for legal advice on a marital settlement but not representation. For someone taking this route, it is only important that you approach a lawyer to have certain aspects explained once you have carried out you own research. You may decide to have a divorce lawyer help with your marital settlement agreement, either to draft one or just to check over one you have made yourself then contact them if you get stuck or confused.