need a lawyer for divorce how to know

by Tamara Schumm 8 min read

If you find that you have significantly more negative interactions with your partner than positive interactions, it may be a sign that you need a divorce and should contact a divorce attorney. Even the magic ratio has its limitations.

When You May Need a Divorce Lawyer
  • There's a problem with abuse.
  • You think your spouse is lying about certain issues or being vindictive.
  • Your spouse has retained an attorney.
  • Your divorce involves children or complicated financial issues.
Jun 15, 2020

Full Answer

Do I really need to hire a divorce lawyer?

Oct 11, 2019 · Depending on your situation, this can be a complicated process. The lawyer will need to understand what assets and debts are involved in the proceedings. He or she will also need to know if there are certain property or assets that you want to retain (such as real estate, vehicles, family heirlooms or other valuables.)

What does it take to become a divorce lawyer?

Sep 22, 2021 · A divorce settlement can be complicated, complex, and challenging in many ways. In such cases, divorce lawyer often play a significant role and can impact how the divorce ends. There are many laws and rules to consider when going through a breakup, and this will vary depending on what prerequisites the couple has from the start.

What to look for in a good divorce lawyer?

Do you really need a divorce attorney?

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What do lawyers need to know about debt?

Your lawyer needs to know about every asset and debt you have. If you do not disclose all this information and try to hide something you risk losing it. Lawyers do much better knowing all the details instead of being surprised.

What should I share about my marriage?

You should share details about your marriage. Some facts will not affect your divorce. Some will change the outcome. This is called a chronology. You can start with how the two of you met, when got married, where you lived, how many children you have, what homes you have bought and sold, jobs you have both worked at, and whether anyone has had an affair. These facts can sometimes make a difference.

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Do You Really Want A Divorce?

Have You Signed An Agreement?

  • Have you signed any agreements that might make the divorce harder or simpler? Divorces are controlled by state law. Some states are community property states and others are not. And you might sign an agreement that is contrary to your state’s laws. The agreement is usually a pre-nuptial agreement, a post-nuptial agreement or even a legal separation agreement. This agreem…
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Marriage Details

  • You should share details about your marriage. Some facts will not affect your divorce. Some will change the outcome. This is called a chronology. You can start with how the two of you met, when got married, where you lived, how many children you have, what homes you have bought and sold, jobs you have both worked at, and whether anyone has had an affair. These facts can sometime…
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Disclose All Assets and Debts

  • Your lawyer needs to know about every asset and debt you have. If you do not disclose all this information and try to hide something you risk losing it. Lawyers do much better knowing all the details instead of being surprised. The law of dividing assets varies between the states. Give your attorney a complete list of assets and debts and let them ...
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Gifts and Loans

  • Have you received any gifts or loans from family members? In a community property state gifts might be separate property. Separate property is not divided. And loans from family members may be a debt you and your spouse need to pay back.
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Do You Want Spousal Support?

  • This is crucial information that you should share at your first meeting with an attorney. When it comes to requesting support, you need to include it in your original filed documents. If you don’t request something you may not be able to request it in the future. Plus, there are often two types of support; long term after the divorce, and short term during the divorce. Your attorney needs t…
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Custody Goals?

  • What are your custody goals? Most states have two types of custody: legal and physical. Legal custody involves medical decisions and decisions on schooling. Physical custody involves who the child spends their time with. Your attorney will want to know your custody goals. Mainly what days of custody would you like to have.
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