13. Divorce Attorneys

Sometimes relationships might not turn around the way you thought them to be. Due to different circumstances, changes, misunderstandings, miscommunications, or other factors, you or your partner might decide to end it.

Unlike dating, you have to undergo several legal proceedings for marriage. It can range from child custody to asset discussions. Based on your concerns, you would require a lawyer with expertise in family law to help you with the case. Through this, you can find solutions to your problems without facing challenges. It is because your lawyer would know more about the legal frameworks.

Instead of hiring a lawyer, if you move forward, you might not receive the desired outcome. Most people decide not to hire a divorce attorney because it can be expensive. However, there are always financial aids that you can rely on to handle such concerns. For instance, Pro Bono services offered by law firms, law schools, or individual lawyers are one way to get free legal aid.

However, in most cases, you need a household income of less than 125% of the federal average. But, coming to divorce, if you are a victim of domestic violence (emotional and (or) physical), you can gain free legal help. Here, your household income won't be a matter of consideration.

What can a Divorce Lawyer Do For You?

A divorce lawyer can offer legal advice and assistance to deal with issues related to your marriage. They can include a variety of matters, and they are as follows:

Protecting Your Rights

There could be situations where your human rights might come under threat. Under such circumstances, your divorce lawyer can assist you by protecting these rights.

For instance, there can be situations where a person has abused their partner physically after filing a divorce. Your lawyer can file a restraining order against your partner, forbidding them to visit or come near you. There can be other situations where your lawyer can offer help to protect your rights. Since each case is unique, you can find further information on how a divorce lawyer can assist you by contacting one personally.

Negotiating with the Opposing Lawyer

There will be situations where there will be negotiations between both parties. If you don't have a legal background or knowledge, it can be challenging to handle such circumstances. When you have a divorce attorney, they can help you reach a settlement that is satisfactory and, at the same time, realistic.

In addition, your divorce attorney could propose a settlement on your behalf after studying the case and discussing it with you. Here, you and your lawyer can analyze the situation closely and proceed with what works best for you. If you don't have a lawyer, you might find it complicated to handle negotiations or settlements effectively.

Assist with Child Custody, Child Support, Spousal Support

If you and your partner have a child or children, there will be discussions related to custody. You might think your partner is unfit to take care of your child, and you would require full custody. It might not be agreeable to your partner or their lawyer. There are chances where you and your partner can agree to share custody amicably. Besides, child support is also essential to help provide for the child.

If you don't have the financial means to support yourself, you can request spousal support or alimony. The court permits it for a low-earning partner in marriage to attain it.

There are different types of alimony, and the most common are temporary, permanent, and alimony-in-gross. The guidelines for obtaining them vary from one state to another in the US.

Finding Undisclosed Assets

Sometimes you might be unaware of all the assets owned by your partner. There are chances they might hide it from you to reduce the loss they face during a divorce. However, your lawyer can help you figure out if there are any such assets and bring them in front of the court of law.

These are some ways a divorce attorney can help you while filing a divorce petition. However, based on the uniqueness of your case, your lawyer can offer other assistance or references if required.

How to Find a Divorce Lawyer in the US?

There are different ways to find a lawyer in the US, and they are:

Referrals

Referrals can be highly beneficial in finding relevant help, especially for divorce lawyers. You can reach out to your friends, family members, colleagues, or acquaintances to connect you with a credible divorce lawyer. In addition, you can also ask for referrals or recommendations from other lawyers you know. Although they might not have expertise in family law, they can share contacts with others they know.

Online Search

There is nothing wrong with using the Internet to find lawyers who can help you file for divorce. You can look into databases or listing platforms to see different attorneys practicing in your area. You can also perform a Google search once you have shortlisted a few lawyers. You can then go through their website, social media handles, Google reviews, testimonials, etc.,

Local Bar Associations

Your local bar association will have a directory with details of different lawyers practicing in your area. You can find information about lawyers and also cross-check their experiences here.

Yellow Pages

Although it might sound a bit outdated, yellow pages are still effective. Using them, you can find the contact details of divorce lawyers near you and connect with them directly.

Local Law Firms

Local law firms in your area will have divorce attorneys working for them, or they can connect you with lawyers who have relevant experience. Through this, you can handle your case effectively with the correct guidance.