Navigating family law matters can be a challenging and emotionally taxing experience for most people. Those looking for a lawyer will spend many hours researching firms and speaking to trusted friends and family to identify one that is experienced and aligns with their expectations. When selecting a lawyer, family law clients have unique needs and preferences, and understanding these will help you keep ahead of your competitors. This blog will delve into the factors that family law clients consider when choosing a lawyer and how law firms can position themselves as the top choice.

1. Expertise and Experience: Clients seek lawyers with proven family law experience and a proven track record of success. Firms should showcase their lawyers' expertise and years of practice in dealing with various family law matters, such as divorce, child custody, property settlement, spousal maintenance, and mediation. Remember to highlight those who have earned a Specialist Accreditation or have high-level skills. 
2. Compassion and Emotional Support: Family law cases can be highly personal and emotionally charged. Clients seek lawyers who will prioritise their well-being and are sensitive to their emotional needs. To demonstrate their commitment, firms can provide resources such as support groups and counselling referrals to help clients who need extra emotional support throughout the legal process.
3. Effective Communication: Effective communication is vital in establishing trust between a lawyer and their client. A lawyer who actively listens, is able to simplify complex legal concepts, and keep their clients informed are highly valued. Law firms can distinguish themselves by providing regular updates, meaningful explanations, and timely resolution of concerns.
4. Affordability and Flexible Payment Options: While clients look for the best possible legal representation, they often worry about the potentially high cost of the service. To address this, firms can offer competitive rates and flexible payment options, such as a sliding scale based on income. Unbundled services allow clients to tailor their legal assistance to specific needs, making it more affordable.
5. Local Presence and Reputation: Clients are often drawn to firms that are well-known and respected in their local community. Having a strong local presence and a positive reputation, backed by client testimonials, online reviews, and word-of-mouth referrals, will always be more attractive than a relative unknown. Participating in pro bono work or community outreach programs can further enhance a firm's image and showcase its dedication to helping others.
6. Responsiveness and Availability: Clients appreciate lawyers who respond promptly to their inquiries and are available for meetings and consultations when it suits them. Offering flexible appointment times, replying promptly to emails and phone calls, and providing a dedicated point of contact can set a firm apart from the competition. Using technology to streamline the intake process, such as Settify's Family Law Intake platform, enables firms to always be available and improve the client experience. Settify allows clients to complete an online onboarding process and provide essential information about their situation, saving time for both the client and the lawyer. The platform offers a secure environment for clients to share sensitive information and provides customised information and guidance, which helps build trust and confidence. 
7. Collaborative Approach and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Family law clients increasingly value lawyers skilled in collaborative law and alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and arbitration. Compared to traditional litigation, these approaches can save clients time, money, and emotional stress. Lawyers who demonstrate their commitment to resolving disputes in a non-adversarial manner will appeal to clients seeking an amicable resolution.
8. Customised Legal Strategies: Clients want lawyers to provide bespoke advice. Firms that create customised legal strategies factoring the client's financial situation and family dynamics will always have an advantage over cookie-cutter practices. 
9. Technological Savvy: In today's fast-paced world, clients value law firms that leverage technology to simplify processes, enhance communication, and deliver a positive client experience. By adopting advanced legal software, tools, and platforms, such as case management systems, video conferencing, and secure client portals, firms demonstrate the ability to deliver efficient and modern legal services. 
10. Awards and Recognition: Clients consider a law firm's awards and recognition as indicators of expertise and commitment to excellence. Accolades and high rankings in legal directories serve as indicators of a firm's expertise and commitment to excellence, attracting potential clients.

When searching for a lawyer to assist with separation, each client will have their own needs and considerations determining their legal path. We have identified the most common factors that may be considered. Law firms that address these factors and incorporate innovative tools, can differentiate themselves from their competitors and cultivate a devoted client base.