If you are considering a divorce, you and your spouse may think about using just one lawyer to prepare the paperwork, particularly when you agree on most issues. Divorce can be expensive and you may think that sharing a charlotte family law attorney will decrease costs. But, keep in mind that you and your spouse are opposing parties in the divorce, so this creates a conflict of interest for the lawyer. Regardless of how amicable your divorce is, giving both parties representation can create an ethical dilemma.
You Need a Lawyer Who Represents Your Best Interests
To make sure your rights and interests are protected in your divorce, you need to have your own attorney to fight for you. Although your divorce may begin amicably, conflict can develop as you begin to negotiate volatile issues such as child custody, property division, child support, and alimony. By having an attorney on your side, you know that someone will fight for what’s important to you.
Navigating the court system can be confusing. When you file for divorce, you must provide the court with complete-well-written paperwork to let a judge equitably split your marital assets. Preparing the assets on your own can lead to you making omissions that can make the judge think that you are trying to hide information. A great divorce lawyer can present you with legal options and strengthen your case.
Hire an Attorney to Represent You in Mediation
Mediation will help you work out the details of your divorce without going to court. But, it’s not a substitute for hiring a qualified attorney to protect your best interests. In mediation, you and your spouse meet with a neutral third party to try to reach an agreement. With this, you get the chance to collaborate with your spouse on a parenting plan and the equitable distribution of your assets. Your mediator will help you communicate what you want and your attorney is present to protect your legal rights.
Once both parties have presented supporting documents, the mediator will recap the discussion, note the issues you agree and disagree on. Mediation reduces time to reach a final divorce settlement, minimizes conflict between spouses, lets spouses express their desires as they work toward a common goal, and creates a more personalized agreement.
Whether you have a contested or uncontested divorce, an experienced divorce lawyer will represent your best interests and protect your legal rights. The services of a qualified attorney are an investment in your future.
