In the United States, almost half of first marriages end in divorce, and that number rises significantly for second and third marriages. Once the relationship is irretrievably broken, divorce often becomes the only option.
The divorce process can be a very difficult and overwhelming time, whether you initiated the divorce or not. There are so many things to consider, and this is especially true if you have children.
Some couples can part amicably without lawyers involved, but everyone’s situation is different. If you’re facing a divorce and are wondering if you need to hire a divorce lawyer, we can help!
Here are 7 reasons to hire a divorce lawyer.
1. Your Spouse Has Filed for Divorce
If your spouse has retained a divorce lawyer or has started the divorce process, you need your own lawyer as soon as possible. It’s critical to have someone by your side to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
Going through a divorce is hard for everyone involved. It’s a highly emotional time and not something you want to face alone.
Hiring an experienced, reputable divorce attorney is the first step toward reaching an amicable resolution and moving forward with your life. Whether your divorce is settled in or out of court, your divorce lawyer will look out for your best interests.
If your spouse is filing for divorce, it’s time to find a divorce lawyer to represent you.
2. Infidelity
Many divorces occur after one spouse is unfaithful to the other. Infidelity doesn’t always result in divorce, but it’s a sign that your marriage may be in trouble.
Many people are unable to forgive or regain trust after infidelity and choose to get a divorce. In some cases, the spouse who cheated chooses to file for divorce to be with someone else.
In divorce cases involving infidelity, emotions are high. These divorces can be bitter as feelings of betrayal and anger surface.
A divorce attorney can serve as a buffer in these situations, making the process easier and less volatile for you, while also helping you make sound long term decisions instead of short-term decisions fueled by emotion.
3. Lack of Commitment
Marriage is serious work. It takes resolve and commitment for it to endure.
Sometimes one or both spouses do not have the desire to fight for the marriage. Although most couples begin with the best of intentions, things change and couples may grow apart.
Emotional distance and lack of commitment take their toll on a marriage. When couples fail to communicate, divorce is often the next step.
If you and your spouse are considering divorce and reconciliation isn’t an option, a divorce lawyer can help you begin the divorce process and assist in developing a plan for moving forward by informing you of your legal rights and options .
4. Your Children’s Wellbeing
When parents are miserable together, it’s an unhappy situation for a child. It’s damaging for children to witness ongoing fighting and hostility between their parents.
Although it’s hard to tell your children you’re getting divorced, it’s often the best solution for everyone involved. Children deserve a calm, safe, and happy home.
Your child’s needs must be a top priority when your marriage is ending. An experienced divorce attorney can help you protect the best interests of your child during the divorce process.
5. Domestic Violence
Unfortunately, domestic violence is a common problem in the US and a major cause of divorce. If you are a victim of abuse in your marriage, you have every right to pursue a divorce.
No one deserves any measure of abuse. If your children are at risk, seek help immediately. Domestic violence is almost never a one-time occurrence.
Abusers do not change just because they say they will, and it can be very difficult to negotiate the terms of your divorce with an abuser.
In this situation, you need a divorce attorney to handle the details of your divorce and ensure your rights and safety are protected.
6. Child Custody Decisions
If there’s a dispute regarding custody of your children, you need a divorce attorney to help you iron out a firm custody agreement. Custody in divorce can be very heated.
If there are any abuse or neglect allegations, things can get complicated. In some amicable divorces, spouses can work together to come up with a custody agreement.
In most divorces, you need a knowledgeable family law attorney to help negotiate the terms of custody. When custody is on the line, it’s critical to choose an attorney who has extensive knowledge of state divorce and child custody laws.
Divorce is difficult for everyone, especially for children who often blame themselves. It’s important to do all you can to make the divorce process as painless as possible for your children.
7. Property Disputes
Property division can be a major issue in a divorce. It is very important to know what is deemed marital property and what rights you have to the marital property. You have to consider all assets in a divorce, including which properties were acquired before and during the marriage.
If you owned multiple properties during the marriage, property issues can be quite complicated. You have to determine which assets belong to whom and which you should split or sell.
In a contentious divorce, one party may try to shift or hide assets in an attempt to get what they want. If the division of assets or property is an issue in your divorce, having an experienced divorce attorney on your side is a must.
When to Hire a Divorce Lawyer
Happily ever after is a great concept, until that dream is no longer a possibility. If your marriage is ending in divorce, we know what a difficult time you’re facing.
Having a trusted divorce lawyer by your side can make the process easier and less volatile for everyone involved. Don’t try to weather the divorce process by yourself.
Hire a divorce lawyer to protect your rights and best interests. New Direction Family Law would love to help you with your divorce or other family law matter.
Contact New Direction Family Law today to schedule a consultation.