Divorce stress can affect you at work or at home. A good attorney can help ease that stress.
When the love runs out, you are left with a business arrangement that must be legally dissolved in a way that is just to both parties and any children involved. That’s when a good attorney who understands the heart as much as he or she does the law comes in handy.
Divorce law is a varied as the number of states in the U.S., and divorce attorneys are as varied as people. Aside from finding a lawyer with qualifications and experience, you also want one who is a good fit for you. If children are involved, be sure you have an attorney who will put the children first.
You also want an attorney who is affordable. Make sure you are clear on what each step of the process is going to cost and what the contingencies are that might increase the final bill.
Basically, the more amicable the divorce, the cheaper the divorce. Here are a few dos that can help you avoid further legal action and a bigger bill.
What to do when you want to say I don't
1. Be reasonable. Finding a way to communicate and cooperate will lead to a reasonable compromise in splitting property and rights.
2. Consider your children’s feelings as you and your spouse move apart. Keep the kids from feeling like they have to take sides.
3. Communicate where you are with the kids and what you are doing at all times, at least until a custody agreement is reached. That way, no one need fear a kidnapping or charges of a kidnapping.
4. Fully disclose all your assets. Hiding assets will only cost you in the end. A judge can throw out a final agreement if one party has not been honest about holdings.
5. Ask your attorney questions. Make sure you understand every step of the process.
