Insights Into How Our Legal System Works

Insights Into How Our Legal System Works

Do You Really Need to Hire A Divorce Lawyer? 4 Questions to Guide You

by Yolanda Lane

Infidelity, financial betrayal, abuse, and lack of commitment are common reasons for divorce. And sometimes, relationships don't just work the way you expected, so you and your partner drift apart to the point that you can no longer take it. But irrespective of why you're divorcing, you may wonder whether it's a good idea to hire a divorce lawyer during the process.

Below are four crucial questions to guide you. 

Do You Have Kids?

Your kids are your world. Irrespective of what has happened between you and their dad or mom, you want them to remain a part of your life. Unfortunately, your partner may be determined to see you never lay eyes on your kids again. So, you need a lawyer to fight for you and ensure that doesn't happen. 

And, even if your partner is okay with co-parenting, you still need to come up with a parenting plan. To ensure both parties are getting a fair deal, hire a lawyer to guide you through the process. When it comes to child support, your lawyer will also work your case so the entire financial burden doesn't fall on you. 

Are You Aware of Your Legal Entitlements?

You and your partner may have accumulated some marital properties. But are you aware of the portion you're entitled to? If your partner has a retirement or pension account, are you aware you may have a right to a legal claim of the benefits? And, if you have kids, do you know your parental rights?

A divorce lawyer knows all the laws and regulations governing divorces in your state. They'll guide you through all your legal entitlements and ensure you're not leaving any assets on the table. 

Do You Understand Legal Jargon? 

As is expected, you'll be downloading forms, filling them out, and signing multiple documents before the divorce is official. These documents may contain complex legal jargon that's difficult to understand for someone without adequate legal knowledge. You may sign a document only to realize later you have awarded your entire estate to your ex. 

To be safe, hire a divorce attorney to handle all the paperwork on your behalf. If you're filing in the forms, your lawyer should examine them before the final signatures. This can save you significant money and headaches. 

Does Your Partner Have a Lawyer?

It's simple — if your partner has hired a divorce lawyer, you also need to hire one. You may think the courts will rule in your favor because you even have evidence of abuse, but your partner's lawyer can argue their case to make it appear like you're the 'bad guy.'

To ensure you're approaching the case on fair terms, get yourself a divorce lawyer. This significantly increases your chances of a better outcome.   


Share

About Me

Insights Into How Our Legal System Works

Hello, I'm Christina Miller. Have you ever been fascinated with why the law works the way it does? Ever since I was in junior high, I had an intense interest in anything related to our legal system, whether it be a crime drama on television, a judge show or a legal case covered on the news. I followed it all. As time progressed, I began learning about how the actual legal system worked and not just the fictionalized version of our legal system. This has lead me to start writing my own blog posts about law that I hope will help others.

Categories