Family divorce solicitors - How do I choose one?

[LondonSuperTrooper]

Hi,

My husband has walked out on me & DC. He's been in touch and he wants to start divorce proceedings. Please can you advice on how I should choose a good solicitor?

I am based in Surrey (near Epsom) and if anyone can give any recommendations then that would be hugely appreciated. Or just general advice on what to look for in a good solicitor.

Many thanks!

Hiya, i'm sorry to hear that - must be really quite stressful for you. I'm a solicitor but not family/divorce but can give you some general ideas and there is someone who I always recommend if asked - please DM me if you want her details. She is very good.
You can start by looking on the Law Society website, they have a directory of all solicitors by their practice area. I don't think it is necessary for the solicitor to be local to you as the days of needing to sit in front of them are long gone but obviously that doesn't mean that you can't have someone more local to you.
I think the key things to look for are (a) someone that you feel comfortable with and don't feel patronised or confused by - you are going through a difficult and stressful time and you don't need extra stress by having to handle a difficult relationship with your solicitor (b) someone who can be honest with you when they need to be but in a calm way. Solicitors who feel the need to show off how aggressive they can be usually aren't my bag (but each to their own) and (c) someone who is going to be contactable and actually handling your case themselves. Nothing worse than not being able to get hold of them or being passed to other people who you don't know when dealing with something so personal.

the other important thing is to understand their fee structure and how they are proposing that you pay them. You can have hourly rates, or fixed fees or a percentage of money that they can agree etc, lots of different ways but although talking about fees can be uncomfortable it's really important that you don't get any nasty surprises down the line.
I hope this helps a bit and again, i'm really sorry to hear that you are having a tough time. Good luck and shout if i can help any further.