When Should You Hire A Divorce Attorney?
Due to the vast amount of information the internet provides, many people opt to handle their divorces on their own to save time and money. However, while this approach works for some people, it does not work for everyone. Also, while it helps some people save time and money, it is a costly mistake to others. For some people, it is best to hire a divorce attorney.
If you are going through a Florida divorce, you might be wondering, “How do I know whether I need an attorney?” How do I know I’m making the right choice regarding my divorce case? Here are some of the questions to ask yourself when determining whether or not to hire a divorce lawyer:
Question #1: Has your spouse hired a divorce lawyer?
When deciding if you should hire a divorce attorney, one of the most important questions is if your partner has hired an attorney. If your spouse has a divorce attorney, it is in your best interests to hire an attorney of your own. It is not a good idea to represent yourself when your spouse has an experienced divorce attorney representing them. If you represent yourself, you will be at a huge disadvantage.
Your partner’s attorney will advance your partner’s interests and priorities. Your spouse’s attorney is not obligated to protect your interests or advance your priorities. In fact, your spouse’s attorney cannot even offer you legal advice. Your attorney will protect your best interests and advance your priorities. They will guide you through the whole process, advising you on your legal rights and the legal options you may have.
Question #2: Do you understand the paperwork?
With a do-it-yourself divorce, you can download forms and fill them out. But ask yourself, “Do I understand what I am signing?” Legal paperwork can be complex. If you find it hard to understand the legal paperwork, then hiring a lawyer is worth it. If you forgo hiring an attorney and make a mistake on the paperwork, it could adversely affect the outcome or invalidate the whole process.
Question #3: Is your divorce high-conflict?
If your divorce is high-conflict, it is best that you hire a divorce attorney. Conflict, resentment, and bitterness can make it hard for divorcing couples to think straight and make the right decisions. If you are angry, resentful, and bitter, it is easy for you to make rash decisions. A skilled divorce attorney can provide rational advice in chaotic times and ensure you make the right decisions.
Question #4: Do you know what you are legally entitled to?
Finally, ask yourself if you understand what you are legally entitled to. For example, do you know that in Florida, any property acquired during marriage, including a pension, must be divided equitably between spouses? If you hire a qualified divorce attorney, they will help you understand everything you are entitled to and help you get what you are entitled to.
Contact a Qualified Divorce Attorney Today
If you are going through a Florida divorce and are looking for a qualified divorce attorney, contact our Fort Lauderdale divorce attorneys at Joyce A. Julian, P.A.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html
