Finance
Divorce Without a Lawyer? 5 Reasons It’s a Bad Idea
Somewhere between 40% to 50% of marriages will end in divorce.
While it might seem like a cut-and-dry process, divorce proceedings are rarely as simple as they seem.
Whether you’re planning for an intense legal battle or you want to make the process as quick as possible, you owe it to yourself to hire a lawyer. Keep reading as we explore five reasons why a divorce without a lawyer is a bad idea.
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The Divorce Process Is Complex
Can you get a divorce without a lawyer? Absolutely! But unless you have a background in the legal system, it isn’t recommended.
There’s nothing easy about getting a divorce. But if you’re not well-versed in legalese, the process can feel near impossible.
Experienced divorce lawyers understand the legal system, so they can walk you through even the most complicated documents with ease.
You have enough on your plate without having to worry about learning the ins-and-outs of filing for divorce without a lawyer.
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Your Spouse Might Already Have a Lawyer
Whether your split with your spouse was consensual or not, both parties are rarely 100% on the same page about divorce proceedings.
Even if you and your spouse agreed not to hire lawyers, they may hire legal aid anyway. If one party has a lawyer and the other doesn’t, it creates an unfair advantage.
You ultimately owe it to yourself to learn how to find a divorce lawyer.
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It Could Impact Your Financial Future
Understandably, you might feel trepidatious about taking on the expenses associated with a divorce lawyer. Lawyers can, after all, be quite expensive.
If you plan to file for financial support like alimony, however, working with a lawyer is a must. Together, you can determine an appropriate amount.
If you take on the task solo, you’ll risk overestimating your required support, which can harm your credibility in court. On the other hand, you may also underestimate how much financial assistance you need, thus causing more financial hardship.
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You’ll Have Less Bargaining Power
Whether you’re splitting assets, battling for custody, or calling it a clean break, divorce requires shrewd negotiation. No one can advocate for your needs in the court of law better than a legal professional.
A divorce lawyer will make sure things are kept fair and honest while staying within the bounds of reason.
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It Can Make a Hard Situation Even Tougher
Life doesn’t wait for anyone. Even if you and your soon-to-be-ex are on good terms, the process of getting a divorce takes a steep emotional toll that can seem downright overwhelming. Especially when combined with your everyday stresses like work and taking care of your family.
Sure, a divorce lawyer is useful for handling legal documents and presenting your arguments in court. But aside from that, they provide you with confidence and peace of mind.
They’ll handle the intricate details while you worry about adjusting to your new life. That alone is worth the cost of hiring a lawyer.
Why Getting a Divorce Without a Lawyer Is a Bad Idea
Getting a divorce without a lawyer is like driving a car without insurance. You’re asking for trouble, and it’s only a matter of time before things get bad.
You owe it to yourself to find a well-versed legal professional.
Looking for more helpful tips on navigating life’s complexities? Check out the rest of our blog for more great content!
