Divorce can always be stressful, but some can be more complex. If you and your spouse have decided to call it quits in Georgia, you might want to know if you should involve an attorney. There are certain situations that can make things easier when you have legal representation.
When is an attorney not necessary?
If you and your spouse have split amicably or are able to put your differences aside to work through all your issues, you might not need an attorney. Couples who are able to come to an agreement on matters involving property division, spousal support, child custody and child support can easily go through their divorce without having lawyers. They might even be able to have mediation to end their marriage.
Uncontested divorce often doesn’t require having an attorney. However, in some cases, you might consider hiring one to give you legal advice and to ensure that your rights are protected during the process.
When do you need an attorney?
A divorce that is contested and involves high anxiety, tension, fighting and disputes over a variety of issues can be problematic if you go it alone. This is the type of situation that calls for having an attorney on your side. If you and your spouse are constantly arguing over any important matters, especially involving your minor children, it’s important to retain an attorney.
An attorney is an expert in their field, which means they are far better equipped to negotiate with your ex’s lawyer. They can help you where you might otherwise agree to something you really don’t agree on, such as an alimony amount that isn’t fair to you. You will also want to hire one if you have learned that your spouse has an attorney of their own.
If you decided to get a divorce due to abuse within the marriage or family, you will want to involve an attorney. This can help in any matters where you feel unsafe as your attorney can also help you obtain a temporary restraining order during the process. You can also get additional help to keep you and your children safe.
An attorney can also be helpful if you believe your spouse is being unfair or dishonest with you. Your lawyer can help you get to the bottom of those issues and protect your rights. It’s best to have the expertise of an attorney on your side if your divorce won’t be easy.