When it comes to getting divorced, there are a lot of things to think about. Should you try to handle everything yourself, or should you hire an attorney? This is a question that many people ask themselves. In this article, we will discuss some of the top reasons to hire a divorce attorney. Remember that your situation is different from everyone else’s, so it’s best to consult an attorney if you want to discuss your case.
1. Divorce mistakes can get very expensive
If you try to handle your own divorce, you might make some very costly mistakes. For example, you might not know how to divide up your retirement accounts correctly. Or, you might make a mistake on your taxes that could cost you a lot of money down the road.
2. An attorney can help keep things civil
Getting divorced is usually not a pleasant experience. Emotions can run high, and things can sometimes get heated easily. Having a divorce attorney to represent you can help keep things from getting too out of hand and help protect your interests.
3. Divorce attorneys can help you save money
Many people think that hiring an attorney is a waste of money. On the contrary, an experienced divorce attorney can save you a lot of money. For one, they can negotiate a settlement that is fair to you and your spouse, and they can make sure that all of the paperwork is filled out correctly.
Additionally, they can thoroughly analyze your assets, including marital assets and non-marital assets. This is especially crucial as most divorcing couples can’t identify which is which.
4. You might need help with custody and visitation
Creating a custody and visitation agreement that is in the best interests of the children should be a priority for all parents who are separating. But this can be a difficult task. An experienced divorce attorney can help make sure that the agreement is fair and in the best interests of your kids.
5. Attorneys have deep knowledge of how divorce courts work
This knowledge can be invaluable if your case ends up going to court. An experienced attorney will know what to expect and will be able to better prepare you for what might happen.
6. An attorney can help protect your valuables
When you get divorced, all of your assets are subject to division. That includes your house, your savings, and even your retirement accounts. With legal counsel, you can make sure that you get a fair share of the assets that you have acquired over the years. If you have a business, investments, or other significant assets, you might want to hire an attorney to help protect all of them.
7. You get objective counsel during a stressful time
Going through a divorce is undoubtedly stressful, and it can be difficult to think clearly. A lawyer or mediator can offer you objective advice to help you make sound decisions as you move forward in your new life. While you try to emotionally process your separation and help your children physically and mentally adjust, you also have to deal with more concrete problems like selling the family house and reevaluating your budget.
Attorneys can help by taking care of administrative matters and communicating with your ex-partner on your behalf. This way, you can focus on other more important things.
8. You might need an attorney if your spouse has one
If your spouse has already hired an attorney, you should certainly consider hiring one too, especially if your spouse’s attorney is someone who is known for being aggressive. Having your own attorney will level the playing field and give you a better chance of getting what you want out of the divorce.
Hiring a divorce attorney is not always necessary, but there are definitely situations where it makes perfect sense to do so.