Should you get a lawyer if you divorce your spouse? It’s one of the first questions that might come to mind when contemplating a divorce. In today’s internet-driven world, thousands of blogs and sites about legal matters like divorce are within anyone’s reach. It’s not surprising why many couples are keen not to use a lawyer in getting a divorce.
While most states don’t require you to hire a divorce lawyer, having one can protect your rights and interests in a divorce. Divorcing without a lawyer seems to be a stress-free and cost-effective process. But each divorce case is unique and often tricky to navigate. Even if you and your spouse had an agreement, negotiating a divorce without a lawyer may have risks.
To guarantee the best result for your case, learn why divorcing without a lawyer isn’t a good idea by reading below.
You’re Not Knowledgeable With the Law
Laws concerning divorces fall under the Family Law. Having in-depth knowledge of such laws is critical in ensuring that your spouse and their lawyer are not violating your rights. You can do extensive research online or get advice from your friend who also went through a divorce.
But they cannot replace the legal advice you’ll get from lawyers who are experienced in handling divorce cases. Laws can change from time to time. And any details that you don’t know, no matter how small, can hurt your case.
Additionally, many issues can come up in your divorce. Even if you and your spouse are on the same page, you may not have considered everything. On the other hand, a skilled divorce lawyer can quickly determine all the potential issues you wouldn’t ordinarily anticipate in your case.
The Process May Take Longer Than Necessary
No matter the reason, going through a divorce can be difficult in many different ways. You most likely want everything done as fast and seamless as possible. According to the Ontario Attorney General’s website, the estimated timeline for divorce proceedings can range between four to six months. However, there are rules and regulations governing divorce you must follow.
For example, you and your spouse must comply with all documents promptly. The process may take longer than necessary if you fail to submit the correct forms or the proper documents. An experienced divorce lawyer can assist you through the entire procedure, from start to finish.
A Lot of Legal Paperwork To Accomplish
Divorcing without a lawyer means you will do all the paperwork. Like most legal processes, divorce requires a lot of paperwork. Besides submitting them on time, you must read and understand some complex agreements before signing anything. Some of it will require careful review and response from an experienced lawyer.
Filling out forms might sound easy, but it can be exhausting during a divorce. Plus, you need to figure out what paperwork is required. Note that every state has different divorce requirements. And unless you’re knowledgeable in interpreting statutes and accurately accomplishing legal paperwork, getting a divorce without a lawyer might bring you more harm than good.
Can Result in Unfair Agreements
Division of debts and assets is one of the causes of conflicts between spouses going through a divorce. Each party is interested in protecting themselves. And getting a divorce without a lawyer can result in unfair agreements that may rob you of your rights and resources.
Even if you and your spouse agreed to split everything 50/50, there are complex laws in dividing properties that you might be unaware of. With an experienced divorce lawyer, you can be confident that all agreements will be meticulously reviewed to protect your interests.
Stress and Emotions Can Cloud Your Judgment
Divorce is stressful and emotionally exhausting, whether the decision is mutual or not. Besides the deadlines and appearances, you’ll need to deal with significant decisions, such as child custody, visitation, child support, and property division.
And without a lawyer on your side, stress and emotions can easily cloud your judgment, causing you to make decisions you might regret in the future. Remember that undoing a divorce agreement is complicated and often only permitted under limited circumstances.
This is why it’s always wise to hire a lawyer who will present an objective analysis of your situation and ensure you make the most informed decision.
Protect Your Rights and Interests With a Divorce Lawyer
Divorcing without a lawyer is possible, but it may not always be the best option. Hiring a lawyer is the most suitable choice, especially if there’s a history of domestic violence, sexual abuse, or child abuse. But even if it’s a mutual decision, a divorce lawyer from Nussbaum Family Law can benefit you more than you realize. They can help safeguard your rights and interests and give you the best representation possible.
