Divorce Lawyer: Legally End Your Marriage

A divorce lawyer can provide the assistance that you need when it is necessary that you end a marriage. You will need to choose an attorney who is familiar with the laws in your state. You may be required to attend counseling sessions in some states. If you have children, the court may order that they receive counseling as well.

When you end a marriage, the welfare of your children is a top priority. Consulting with an attorney will give you the information that you need to help you make decisions regarding custody and visitation. Your attorney can assist you in filing for custody or visitation.

Determining how assets will be divided is one of the most stressful acts when you terminate a marriage. Couples often spend valuable time arguing over items in their home. Seeking the advice of an attorney can reduce some of the bickering. When you meet with your spouse, you can choose to have your attorney present to represent you and advise you. If you have trouble communicating with your spouse, communicating through your attorney may be your best option.

You may be required to legally separate from your spouse for a period of time before you are allowed to file for a permanent termination. Your attorney can let you know if a period of separation is required in your state. The attorney can also help you file separation papers if they are needed and help you determine how you should legally handle the separation.

Terminating a marriage can be a difficult experience if you are not accustomed to providing an income for yourself or if you are living on a single income. Your attorney can assist with filing for alimony or child support if it is appropriate to do so. Your divorce lawyer can assist you with dealing with debt so that you can learn if you will also be responsible for debts that were acquired during the marriage. If you are not responsible for the debts, the attorney will tell you how to best handle the situation.

If you foresee that you will have to earn an income on your own, after the end of your marriage, it is best that you begin looking for other sources of income as soon as possible. Before you are separated, consider returning to school to receive addition training that you may need to get a better job. If you plan ahead, you can begin job hunting and land a new job before you desperately need to find a new job.

Your divorce lawyer can let you know if you qualify for alimony and other sources of income, but a proactive approach may be in your best interest. You do not want to rely on income that you never receive. Although some spouses are ordered to pay money to their children or their spouse, some simply do not pay. Your divorce lawyer can help you take the person to court to report this, however, you will need money to pay your bills until the case is settled and you receive the money that is due.