A word that no one likes to hear but one that is becoming increasingly more common in today's society. Literature suggests that over 50% of marriages in the United States will end in divorce at some point. In this difficult time with so many things to consider, it is essential that you choose an attorney who can help you to navigate the divorce process successfully. Only an experienced attorney can help you avoid common pitfalls that can literally make your life miserable for a very long time.
As difficult as a divorce is by itself, the situation is made even more complex by the presence of children. The entire family unit is changed, and the process can be very traumatic and confusing for everyone involved. Child visitation, support, and custody are often issues that are hotly contested between divorcing spouses. An experienced attorney can assure that any child support payment or custody agreement reached is fair to you and to your children. An experienced attorney can also help with the appropriate legal steps to take if you are the victim of domestic violence.
Marital property is also often the subject of dispute. During marriage, a couple builds a life together, a life which includes material possessions. These possessions, called "marital assets," must be divided fairly if a couple chooses to divorce one another. An experienced attorney can prevent LOSS of marital assets that are RIGHTFULLY YOURS. Decisions such as whether or not you should move out of the marital residence and whether you should begin to separate your finances from your spouses finances also must be considered very carefully and truly require the advice of an experienced attorney.
The divorce procedure itself can be complicated. How long must I be separated before filing for divorce? How do I keep up with all of the dates and information? An attorney can answer these and many other questions. He or she can advise you on how to gather the information you will need once the divorce is filed and will assist you in preparing for experiences such as mediation or trial.
Speaking with an attorney before any decisions are made is ESSENTIAL to assuring that your rights are protected during the divorce proceeding and afterwards. Assuring that your divorce is handled properly will free you from future complications in many areas of your life.
