Sunday, August 3, 2008

The Truth About Divorces - The Costly Option!

By Dhael Winston


Unfortunately the chances of a married couple splitting up gets higher each year so hiring a divorce lawyer is the next crucial step; you will want them to possess certain attributes for instance:

* Well versed in divorce law * Have the right frame of mind for this type of work * Be consistent in their work

Ideally your divorce attorney should be spending half their time dealing with divorce cases and preferably one who is a good mediator. They will need to be someone in whom you can place your trust and feel comfortable working with so if these criteria cannot be met then you will need to look elsewhere.

Those attorneys who prefer mediation will look to solve problems by talking and not through the conflict based approach many attorneys wish to provide. The most important thing is to be very well prepared whenever you contact your divorce lawyer so know your facts, what you want to ask about and exactly what you want the lawyer to explain or do for you.

Plan each conversation by making an agenda and write down the things you want to talk about; take notes on the content of the conversation and the amount of time spent on phone calls. Try to keep actual meetings to a minimum and where points have to be clarified, use the phone or send a letter.

Your attorney is there for advice and any foreseeable legal actions so do not rely on them for anything but what you are paying them for, and especially not as a shoulder to cry on. Never trouble your divorce lawyer with trivial matters that do not directly concern the divorce.

Being in control of your own case and your own life is the single best thing you can do, so it is essential that you have a lawyer who can work on that basis.

If they are there purely to act in accordance with the legal issue of divorce it will be more efficient utilization of their services and you will be making the decisions. Let them know that copies of any correspondence relating to the case will need to be sent to you along with any other information and if you contact them, to reply as quickly as possible.

Don't think that you have to enter into proceedings armed with a lawyer in tow as they aren't always necessary although you may wish to speak to one just for advice on a marital settlement for example. For someone taking this route, it is only important that you approach a lawyer to have certain aspects explained once you have carried out you own research.

Some people only use a divorce lawyer to re-read and check a marital settlement they have drafted on their own but at least these people have the backup of using a lawyer if all else fails.

About the Author:

0 comments: