A divorce often comes with intense emotions and hard choices. Even though divorce may be the best for your family’s future, you may experience fear about this major life change. It’s important to understand you don’t have to stay in an unhappy or troubling relationship any longer with the help of a divorce lawyer.
An experienced divorce lawyer will walk with you every step of the way, advocate for your rights, and ensure your future is protected. If you have hesitation or need more guidance, divorce attorneys can provide invaluable help. Learn when you should get a divorce lawyer to help you and your family thrive through this challenge.
When Do You Need To Speak With a Divorce Attorney?
In every divorce situation, speaking with an attorney can help you reach the best outcome. Even if you have not fully committed to the separation yet, it’s essential to seek legal counsel. A family law attorney will answer all your questions and prepare you to make confident, informed decisions about your marriage and future. Here are many instances when a divorce lawyer can help you greatly.
Complex Financial Situations
If you and your spouse have significant assets, businesses, investments or retirement accounts, or debts, consulting with a divorce lawyer is crucial. You may be wondering how asset division will work and if assets you had before the marriage will remain yours.
During a consultation, the family lawyer will provide guidance and answer these questions surrounding asset and debt division. With them a divorce lawyer working for you, they’ll help ensure you receive your fair share through the divorce.
If you are in the Raleigh, NC area and need to hire a divorce lawyer, schedule a consultation with an experienced attorney today.
Child Custody Disputes
Your emotions are likely running high about potential custody disputes with your children. In divorce proceedings, these can quickly escalate. Studies show the importance of attorneys through the custody process: 86% of cases with both parents represented reached a settlement, while only 63% of cases with one attorney and 71% of cases with no attorneys reached settlement.
Your divorce attorney will help alleviate the stress by navigating the complex custody laws for you. They’ll work towards a custody arrangement that prioritizes the well-being of your children.
Domestic Violence or Abuse
If you are experiencing domestic violence or abuse in your marriage, seeking legal assistance is imperative to protect yourself and your children. A family law attorney can help you obtain a restraining order, file for emergency custody, and guide you through the legal process to ensure your safety.
An experienced family law firm can also connect you with community resources for support if you’ve experienced domestic violence. And remember, don’t wait if you are ever in immediate danger and dial 911 for your safety.
Uncooperative Spouse
If your spouse is uncooperative or refuses to participate in the divorce process, it can prolong the proceedings and lead to unnecessary stress and frustration. If you anticipate lots of backlash and difficulty from your spouse during divorce, you need a divorce lawyer!
An attorney can intervene on your behalf, communicate with your spouse or their legal representation, and advocate for a resolution that protects your rights.
Legal Paperwork
Navigating the paperwork and legal documentation required for divorce can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the legal process. A divorce lawyer can handle the paperwork on your behalf, ensuring that all documents are completed accurately and filed within the necessary deadlines.
Even in uncontested divorces where both parties agree on all aspects of the divorce, seeking legal advice is still beneficial. A divorce lawyer can review the terms of the uncontested divorce agreement to ensure that your rights and interests are protected and that the agreement complies with applicable laws.
Don’t Wait to Speak With a Divorce Lawyer
When you know you need a divorce, it’s best to hire a divorce lawyer as soon as possible. Big decisions and preparations have to be made before and during the separation process. One of these decisions is planning your separation. While there is no “perfect” time to separate, there can be some strategy as to when you choose to initiate the separation.
North Carolina requires that a couple must be separated for a year and a day before they can file for divorce. This separation must last for an uninterrupted year, during which the couple must live in different residences. Consulting with an attorney can help you understand what courts consider as “separate” and what mistakes you should avoid so you don’t reset that year-long separation requirement.
Need Help for Legal Separation in Raleigh, NC?
New Direction Family Law provides advice and representation to men and women in Raleigh, NC and surrounding counties who are seeking divorce. Our attorneys have over 80 years of combined experience serving clients and reaching the best outcomes.
You deserve an attorney who will listen, advocate for you, and work to secure the best future for you and your family. Call New Direction Family Law at (919) 752-4831 to schedule an appointment or fill out our contact form today.