People entering marriage covenants don’t typically do so, thinking their unions will end in separation or divorce. But the reality is that many couples don’t live happily ever after.
If you’ve reached the end of your rope and want to explore terminating a marriage, you’ll want to find the right lawyer. There’s a lot at stake when two people call it quits, such as the custody of children, division of property, alimony, and the distribution of assets. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg since you’ll need to work through many other issues. Retaining an experienced family law lawyer will help you navigate the complex process.
Specific Reasons to Call a Family Law Lawyer for Help
1. Get Answers to Your Questions
Are you considering options and need to speak to a legal professional to ensure you know what you’re getting into? You might be contemplating ending your marriage but wish to see how doing so might impact you, your spouse, and your children over the short- and long-term periods.
A family law attorney can advise you confidentially so that you know what to expect and how to proceed. You can get the answers needed to make informed decisions that impact you and others.
2. Obtain Level-Headed Representation
One reason to contact a family law lawyer is for the legal representation you need. Family law is a complex area of law that can be confusing if you don’t work in the legal space. And even seasoned attornies must stay current on how the law works and what’s allowable.
3. Get Legally Enforceable Documentation
When you sign on with a family law lawyer, you’ll get help drafting and filing the appropriate documents within the allowable time period. This assistance is invaluable since making mistakes or filing after deadlines have passed can unnecessarily extend the process.
Your lawyer will explain what needs to be done and assist so that you have all the required documentation and that your documentation is legally enforceable to facilitate the process.
4. Get Help With Different Agreements
Depending on your situation, you may need to reach contractual agreements with another party. For instance, if you decide to live with another person but don’t want to get married, it makes sense to reach a cohabitation agreement. You’ll be glad you did if the relationship doesn’t work out, and you want to ensure that things like financial support, division of property, and division of assets are worked out ahead of time in a way that’s fair. A family law lawyer can help.
You’ll also want to talk to a family law lawyer if you want a prenuptial agreement in place before getting married to your significant other. Doing so is especially useful if you or your significant other makes a lot more or brings more into the relationship than the other.
If you get married without signing a prenuptial agreement beforehand, you can still sign a postnuptial agreement. It’s a good idea if you and your spouse decide, after tying the knot, that you want to create guidelines for support entitlement, division of financial assets, and property division if the relationship concludes. You’ll want input from a family law lawyer on such matters.
A separation or divorce agreement is another type of agreement. You’ll want a lawyer’s input to ensure yours is legally enforceable. Do you and your spouse have children? If so, you’ll want to agree on custody arrangements and child support, property division, spousal support, and more.
5. Resolve Situations Faster
If you want to separate or get a divorce, you’ll want to get the process started and finished as soon as possible. Trying to resolve family law issues alone isn’t the right idea. That’s especially true if you or your spouse don’t see eye to eye and are contentious.
A family law lawyer can help you resolve the issue sooner rather than later so that you can move forward. Consider, too, that a speedier resolution can save you money during the process. Family law proceedings can be contentious. It pays to get the right legal assistance.
These are five reasons why you should contact a family law lawyer. Don’t try to do it yourself. If you want the best results and a faster resolution, your best bet is to seek out an experienced family law lawyer who has helped people in your situation.
