Divorce cases represent some of the most legally complex and emotionally challenging of all legal proceedings. Finding yourself facing the prospect of a divorce case, seriously consider retaining the services of an experience and qualified divorce court attorney. Throughout the country, most communities have attorneys that specialize in divorce and family law matters.
Functions
The primary functions of a divorce court attorney include protecting your rights in marriage dissolution proceedings. This includes advancing your interests in regard to the division of assets and debts as well as the custody, visitation and support of your children.
Time Frame
Some people delay obtaining legal representation in a divorce case until the proceedings commence. The best course to take is retaining an attorney as soon as you realize you will be involved in a divorce case. The reality is that important issues exist that need to be addressed even before an actual divorce petition or complaint is filed in court.
Benefits
A variety of benefits attach to retaining a divorce lawyer. For example, a divorce is an intensely emotional legal proceeding. If you are like most people, trying to make a wise decision when experiencing emotional duress is difficult if not impossible. With legal counsel assisting and guiding you in the decision making process, your emotions will not get the best of you in resolving divorce-related issues.
Considerations
Selecting the best attorney for your specific needs is challenging. Local and state bar associations maintain divorce court attorney information for consumers like you. Contact information for these attorney organizations is available through the American Bar Association:
American Bar Association
321 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60654-7598
312-988-5000
abanet.org
Misconceptions
One of the most common misconceptions associated with a divorce court lawyer is the actual need for legal representation. Some individuals conclude that they are well equipped to handle their own divorce cases without attorneys. Because the court holds a layperson representing herself essentially to the same standard as a lawyer, such an individual faces serious sanctions--including dismissal of a divorce case--if she fails to comply with divorce law and procedure, according to the American Bar Association Section of Family Law.
References
- American Bar Association: Section of Family Law
- "Nolo's Essential Guide to Divorce"; Emily Doskow; 2008
- "The Divorce Organizer & Planner"; Brette McWhorter Sember; 2004
