Divorce Lawyer
As a divorce lawyer from a firm like the Law Office of Daniel J. Wright can explain, divorce is one of the most stressful and emotionally draining experiences you can go through. It also changes your life forever. Your wisest course of action, therefore, is to hire an experienced local divorce lawyer to guide you through the process and help you keep your life on an even keel. In addition, there are legal, financial and tax considerations to divorce that you may well not be aware of. Your lawyer can advise you of these and help you achieve the most favorable outcome.
Special Circumstances
Your need for competent, compassionate legal representation increases if your marital situation includes any of the following:
- A history of domestic abuse
- Your spouse currently living in another state or country
- Your suspicion that your spouse is attempting to conceal marital assets from you
- Your fears that your children may not be safe when visiting your spouse or that he or she will abduct them and refuse to return them to you
If you have good reason to be afraid of your spouse, your lawyer can help you get a restraining order or order of protection against him or her. Such orders typically prohibit your spouse from coming within a specified distance of you or harassing you by phone, text, email, etc.
State Divorce Requirements
Each state has its own laws and rules of procedure regarding divorces. For instance, did you know that you likely will need to have lived in the county where you file your divorce for at least six months? Your lawyer can advise you of this and other state and local court rules such as the following:
- Mandatory waiting period, i.e., “cooling off” period
- Mandatory mediation
- Child support guidelines
- Spousal support guidelines
- Rules regarding the split of your marital property
Financial Considerations
Your lawyer can also advise you of the financial and tax implications of any property settlement agreement your spouse proposes. This is especially important if you and your spouse are a high-asset couple with multiple complex and complicated holdings.
If you suspect that your spouse is hiding marital assets, your lawyer can also help you find them, possibly with the assistance of a forensic accountant.
Bottom Line
All in all, the value of having an experienced local divorce attorney in your corner and at your side cannot be overstated. He or she can serve as your best friend and strongest advocate throughout your divorce, ensuring that your legal and personal rights are protected.