What are the best personality traits for a good family law attorney?

Your question asks about traits, but your last sentence asks for a recommendation. You may contact my office by email for a recommendation ([email protected]) but as for traits, as you suspect, an attorney with intelligence and experience who respects his/her client's objectives and budget is the "best."

Your question opens up a long-winded response. The choice of who is "best" isn't easily answered. That depends on what you, as the client, are looking for. Every attorney has a "style" - a method by which they operate. Some are, as you describe, aggressive. Some are "deal makers" and try to resolve issues quickly. Some are timid and ill-suited for litigation. Add to that mix the fact that every client is different - some demand a quick resolution despite obvious problems with doing so. Others want to fight over everything, even when it makes no sense to do so. I've had all types in my office. So, when you ask, "who's the best," that's a near-impossible question to answer. You need to shop around and see who fits best with your personality and goals.

When looking for the right attorney, you may also want to be talking about the right process for you and your family. Mediation gives you and your wife the power and responsibility to make the best decisions for your family. Collaborative Law provides a team approach which gives each Party a support system throughout the process. And litigation is tantamount to make a big donation to an aggressive attorney to fight for you and spend your children's college fund.