Many people who desire a divorce also want to choose the least expensive route. The reasons are many. One might be that the party doing the searching is short on funds. Another might be that the person just does not want to be taken advantage of financially. Still, another might be that the person thinks that their case is “simple” and therefore does not warrant much expense.
No matter how “simple” you think your case is, my recommendation is that you see an attorney before you finalize anything. Why? Well, your “simple” issue likely has complexities that a layperson will not notice—or even think about—until the proverbial train has left the station.
For instance, you may have agreed that you will receive your share of your spouses’ pension, which is already being paid to him or her. But how does that decision impact your spousal support obligation to your spouse? Did you agree to give spousal support without first properly determining the income? And did you consider the need for life insurance to secure your right to child support in the event the custodial or non-custodial parent dies before your children are emancipated?
Have you fully thought about how the proceeds from the sale of the home will be distributed in the divorce and how your spouse’s payment of the mortgage will impact the amount of equity that spouse will get when the house sells? These are all questions an attorney can help you answer.
And, while you may have to pay an attorney for their services, paying those fees may prevent your losing thousands by making a bad agreement. So, as my favorite television judge used to say: “Think Deep Before You Leap!”
And, if you need additional help to actually plan for a divorce or separation, I am here now to help you Turn Fear Into Power When Happily Ever After Fades Away®.