When it comes to many divorces, most individuals wouldn't think twice about getting an attorney as soon as possible. In the midst of a messy divorce and tricky details, going into a courtroom to face the divorce hearing would be like walking into a gunfight holding only a plastic knife. Although in most cases it seems obvious that navigating a divorce without a lawyer would be impossible, are there exceptions? Some individuals who are on good terms with their spouse and have friendly communications with no ill will between them may see no need to get a lawyer, choosing instead to handle the end of the marriage between the two of them. If you're wondering if a lawyer is needed in your divorce case even though you're sure that you and your spouse will come to an easy mutual agreement, ask yourself a few of the following questions to be sure:
Is There Property Involved?
How much property do you own with your spouse? Consider the names on the title for your home, cars, or other mutually owned property like boats, motorcycles, or summer homes. If you own a lot of property, you'll likely want an attorney to help you sort through all the sticky details of what goes where. While you might agree with your spouse about who should keep the car and who gets to stay in the house, working through all the legal aspects of getting their name off the title can be a tricky process. If not done correctly, you may be forced to pay fees for a costly refinance-- so it's better to have an expert guide you through the process when it comes to property.
Will There Be Follow-Up Details?
It may seem like preparing for and going through the actual court appearance would be enough-- in other words, that the divorce is finalized and there's nothing else to do after you're handed the decree from the judge. In many situations, that's not actually the case. If you have assets or other things that need to be further divided amongst the two of you, paperwork may be required in a timely manner after the court appearance is over. An attorney will not only help you with these follow up details but may be able to fill out and complete the final details for you.
How Long Have You Been Married?
If you spent the weekend in Las Vegas and got married in a frenzy without thinking it through, odds are you'll be just fine ending the marriage without an attorney. The longer the years go on, however, the more difficult the process gets for a divorce case. If you've been married for a long time, don't hesitate to contact a lawyer (such as Joanna Cobleigh Esq). Even if you want him or her to look over the final details and paperwork one last time after you've completed it, you can hire them hourly-- a small price to pay to make sure everything is done correctly.
Share25 March 2015
Are you going through a divorce? Do you have kids? If so, do you know how to handle the many struggles you will face when it comes to your kids? Even if you and your spouse can get through the divorce while agreeing on the custody arrangements, there will be struggles that you may not have planned for. For example, who will handle the educational, medical or other decisions about the kids? Is it something that you will decide together, or will one parent make the decision and the other one agree? My site contains several tips that can help you plan for the struggles you will go through in the future and make the situation a little easier for your entire family.