At What Point Would I Need to Hire a Divorce Lawyer?
Divorce is not an easy or pleasant experience, whether you initiated the process or not. When a marriage becomes irretrievably broken, divorce is usually the only way out. However, the divorce process can be challenging and overwhelming, quickly aggravating intense emotions, especially if you have minor children.
Some couples can part cordially without much help from a divorce lawyer, but everyone’s circumstance is unique. Even if you agree on most matters with your soon-to-be ex, it is always wise to consult a divorce lawyer. They can review the agreement to ensure it is fair. When you are battling it out on issues, it is even more prudent to have a lawyer by your side to not only handle the paperwork but also to protect your best interests to help you move on.
This article explores several situations where you may need to hire a divorce lawyer. Read on to learn more.
Your Spouse Has Hired a Lawyer
If your spouse has hired a lawyer, consulting with your attorney as soon as possible is usually wise. With high and personal stakes in a divorce, it is not the time to take on an experienced lawyer on your own. Representing yourself can seriously disadvantage you, especially with all the legal complexities and paperwork involved. However, an experienced divorce lawyer can look out for your best interests, ensuring you are not taken advantage of during negotiations or court proceedings.
When There is Disagreement on Child Support and Child Custody
Divorce can become most challenging when minor children are involved. Hiring a seasoned divorce lawyer is best if you and your spouse cannot agree on child support and custody arrangements. The lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your child’s best interests. This can include developing an efficient parenting plan, determining appropriate child support payments, and representing you in court, if necessary.
When You and Your Spouse Disagree on Alimony
Alimony, also known as spousal support, is the payment that one spouse, usually the higher-earning one, provides to the other spouse after a divorce. If you and your spouse contend on the amount of alimony, hiring a divorce lawyer may be wise. The lawyer can help negotiate a fair alimony plan or advocate for your rights in court to get what you deserve.
When There is Disagreement on Property Division
In California, all property acquired during a marriage is considered community property and must be divided 50/50 in a divorce. This includes assets such as houses and cars and debts such as mortgages or credit card debt. Property division is often contentious, especially when you own multiple properties and have no idea what rights you have to the property.
If you and your spouse cannot agree on splitting the assets and debts, you need to hire a reputable lawyer to determine which assets and debts belong to whom and which ought to be divided. They can also negotiate with your spouse to reach a fair settlement agreement.
When You are Involved in a High-Asset Divorce
Divorces involving high net worth, substantial wealth, and business interests can be far more complex. While assets owned during the marriage are equally split upon divorce, a spouse with significant independent wealth, investments, and business interests may be disadvantaged. In such situations, hiring a divorce lawyer with experience in high-asset divorce is best to protect your financial interests.
When There is a Breakdown of Communication
Divorce often leads to strained communication between spouses. This may be due to hurt feelings or disagreements on child support or property division. If you and your spouse cannot meet or speak without fighting, it may be necessary to hire a divorce lawyer. The lawyer can act as a neutral party, facilitating communication with your ex to reach a mutually agreeable settlement.
When Objectivity is Needed
When you can no longer save your marriage, emotions of hurt, anger, and betrayal start running high. This can make it difficult to make rational decisions that will not have severe consequences on your children and financial future. A divorce lawyer can provide objective advice and guidance and help you make informed decisions throughout the divorce process. By hiring an experienced divorce lawyer, you can rest assured that you are making sound decisions instead of emotionally-fueled short-term decisions.
The Law Office of Joyce M. Holcomb is here to help
Divorce can be an emotional and complex process, and having a divorce lawyer by your side to protect your rights and interests is essential. If you are dealing with property division, child support, alimony, or any other issue, contact our experienced San Bernardino divorce lawyers at the Law Office of Joyce M. Holcomb today. We can provide you with the legal support and representation you need during this challenging time. Call us at (909) 889-7111 to schedule a free consultation today.
