What Are Divorce Attorneys?
Divorce attorneys are lawyers that specialize in dealing with family law and divorce. With divorce being such a common occurrence these days – at least 50% of all marriages end in divorce – most people need to find a divorce lawyer at some point in their lives.
So, under what circumstances are divorce attorneys needed? Well, unsurprisingly, when you are getting divorce. However, they can also be consulted prior to official divorce proceedings being started. You and your partner (ex-partner) will need to find your own separate lawyers, as sharing one is not an option due to there being a clear conflict of interest. They will work with you to help you get the best possible result based on your circumstances and will act as a go-between, meaning that direct communication between you and your ex will be at a minimum.
Even though not all divorces are messy, and some couples are able to resolve all the separation of property and custody issues on their own, it is important to have use divorce lawyers in the case of any disagreements at a later date.
It is important that all terms of the agreement are both valid and legally binding and only a lawyer can ensure that this is the case. Remember that divorce agreements are a two way thing; obviously you will want your ex to stick to what they have agreed to, but you will also be bound by what you have agreed to. Once you sign an agreement, it will be legally binding on you. Should you break the terms of an agreement at a later date, it is not a valid legal defense to say that you only did so because did not understand, or were misled, on certain parts of it.
Another important reason for enlisting the help of a divorce attorney is that divorce laws vary from state to state. Just because you saw something on TV, or read somewhere, something that you think will be beneficial to you in the proceedings, it does not necessarily mean that it is enforceable in your particular state. For example, some states require a formal separation prior to start of divorce proceeding whilst others require only an informal one. Some require that you have first been separated for 12 months and others for just 6 months. A lawyer will be able to help you sort through all the legalities.
And, how do you go about finding divorce attorneys? Finding divorce attorneys is probably easier than finding other kinds of attorneys for the simple fact that they are so commonly needed. Someone you know has probably been through a divorce themselves and will as such be able to give you some recommendations or referrals. If they were not completely satisfied with their experience, or if you do not think you should use that lawyer, consider using online directories or your local telephone directory to help find a divorce attorney that can help you.
