If you are in the beginning or middle of a divorce, quite probably you would want to represent yourself as do almost half the Americans who are in the process of a divorced each year; however, we advise you to seek the help of a divorce attorney.
Many people instinctively go to the doctors when they get sick, but most people delay or outright refuse to talk to a divorce attorney early on in the conflict – thinking they could handle it on their own, or things would get better with a second, third, or infinity x chance.
Unfortunately, divorce is a complicated process and could get lengthy and costly if advice is not sought early on in the process. – Also, whatever the reasons for the divorce, the children are the ones most vulnerable to the rapidly changing circumstances around them. Hence it is also very important to seek legal advice on what to do while in this emotional situation regarding custody and visitation. Who can give better advice for a peaceful divorce process than your divorce attorney?
Let us look at how your divorce attorney can help you sail through the murky waters:
Provide an objective plan/advise
While it may seem counter-intuitive to hire a divorce attorney, it is imperative that you keep your cool and stay neutral while deciding on important emotional and financial issues. The level of heightened emotions, rage and resignation may impact your judgement and that is where your divorce attorney will provide you that wise support. She will advise you of what financial documents are needed for you situation, what parenting plans may fit your situation.
Save you money
Speaking with a divorce attorney and getting advice early on in the process will save you money. Most divorce attorneys charge by the hour and hiring one may cost you some amount in the divorce process, but also save you loads of money in the future as it will cost you less to try and undo mistakes you have made because you did not seek legal advice early on in the process. Your divorce attorney will not only make sure that you are as organized as possible – in terms of legal documentations, decisions and parenting plans –. You do not have to hire and attorney for your entire divorce. You can hire and attorney for stages of your divorce.
Review paperwork
Your divorce attorney should be aware of your state laws and and court rules. Your attorney should make sure you have all the necessary financial documents and paperwork required for each step of the process. The issues vary from social security, retirement benefits, spousal benefits, pension, investment, property issues etc. Hence, it is imperative that your paperwork is done correctly.
Provide various options
It is possible that while you are filing for divorce, you have harbored a lot of negative feelings and emotions towards your spouse. When you are in that state you are not in a position to make unemotional decisions. Your attorney will not only act as a liaison between you and your spouse, they would also evaluate your situation and make you aware of possible outcomes of each decision you could make.
While you and your spouse may only be focused on ‘getting’ through the divorce, your attorney will assist you in creating a reasonable settlement. If the ‘settlement proposal’ comes from the other side, then your attorney will guide in making a response, making a counter proposal and settling the matter.
