Re: obtaining a lawyer

There is no set "formula" for finding a "great" lawyer. If you know people who have worked with family lawyers before, their recommendations are a good source. You can use search engines like google to find lawyers in your area who practice family law and see if they seem to have the credentials you are looking for.

I have always felt that you must feel comfortable with an attorney from the outset in order to have a good working relationship. I have been practicing family law for over 30 years. I make it a practice to tell my clients exactly what I can, and cannot, accomplish for them from the outset. If their goals are incompatible with realistic expectations, then it's guaranteed they will be dissatisfied with the outcome. By the same token, once I commit myself to undertake the representation of a client, I will do whatever is necessary to achieve the best possible result for my client.

With respect to your second question, technically speaking it's not ethically improper for your ex's attorney to represent him just because he represented your husband many years ago (presumably before you had a relationship), but it seems somewhat inappropriate. Obviously your husband would want to choose a new attorney if he had to revisit his case.

Re: obtaining a lawyer

It takes time and energy to find an attorney that is appropriate to your matter, needs and personality. The biggest issue is finding someone who you are confortable with and someone that is not going to "sugar coat" your matter. If the representation has unrealistic expectations, then no matter the outcome, you will not be happy.

As for the second question, there is nothing unethical, however, there may be a moral issue. Also, I would suggest finding a different lawyer if things happen and the matter needs to be reopened.