Divorce is a difficult and emotionally draining experience for everyone involved. It’s hard to cope with the emotional roller coaster of a marriage’s end, and the stress can be overwhelming. That’s why managing divorce’s emotional and practical aspects are important.
Hiring a qualified divorce lawyer is one of the most significant decisions you can make during a divorce. A divorce attorney specializing in family law can provide legal advice and assistance throughout the divorce process.
Here are some ways divorce attorneys can help their clients:
Explaining Grounds for Divorce
Although divorce can be explained as ending a marriage, there are many legal grounds for which you can seek a divorce. Moreover, some states require the filing of specific documents to begin the divorce process. For example, in British Columbia, the couple must file a Notice of Family Claim to begin the divorce proceedings.
By hiring a divorce attorney, you can understand what grounds for divorce are available in your state and how they apply to your case. For instance, if you’re filing for divorce because of:
- Adultery
- Cruelty
- Mental illness
- Abandonment
- Imprisonment
- Irreconcilable differences
Your attorney can explain each of these grounds and how to prove them.
Accounting For Marital Assets
One aspect of divorce you should always pay attention to is the marital assets and how to divide them. Remember, the property you acquire during your marriage, including money, real estate, retirement accounts, and investments, is considered marital property.
In this case, you and your spouse can discuss your assets with your divorce lawyer and reach a fair and equitable settlement. If you and your spouse cannot settle on the division of assets, you may have to leave it to the court and have a judge decide. The court will consider the length of the marriage, the inputs of each spouse, and any other relevant factors.
Helping With Custody Plans
Some couples find difficulty resolving custody matters since they both have strong feelings about who should have primary custody of their children. In this case, your divorce attorney can create a parenting plan that can be mutually agreed upon, considering the children’s best interests.
Your lawyer can also help you understand the types of custody available and your parental rights and responsibilities. However, remember that the court will always consider the children’s best interests when deciding custody and visitation.
Preparation with Divorce Papers
Divorce comes with a lot of paperwork, such as:
- Financial documents
- Divorce petition
- Separation agreement
- Child custody agreement
- Division of property agreement
- Spousal support agreement
- Waiver of service
- The final decree of divorce
Your divorce lawyer can assist you in preparing all necessary documents, ensuring that all the paperwork is properly completed and filed with the court. They can also provide guidance and advice throughout the process, helping to ensure your rights and interests are protected.
Final Thoughts
Divorce attorneys are essential to helping clients navigate the complex legal process of a divorce. They are invaluable for couples considering divorce and can provide sound legal advice and emotional support. In addition, they can provide emotional support to their clients during difficult times and ensure that the divorce process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Dreyer and Associates can provide a reliable and knowledgeable divorce lawyer in the Fraser Valley to help you through your divorce process. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to providing you with the best legal representation to ensure your rights and interests are protected throughout the process. Consult with us today!
