Relationship issues can be stressful, and, unfortunately, not all will end with an amicable resolution. However, consulting a divorce attorney does not need to be reserved for filing for divorce.
Partnering with an attorney ahead of time can be a valuable investment as these legal professionals can offer guidance before divorce is on the table. As a preventive, a divorce attorney can also be a beneficial resource for drafting pre- and post-nuptial agreements.
When already involved in a divorce, an attorney can help you better understand the terms of such agreements. Residents of Laurel, MD who are contemplating divorce or facing related issues should seek the legal advice of an experienced divorce attorney.
Regardless of the relationship status, pay attention to signs that it may be time to ask a divorce lawyer for advice.
When Should You Consult a Divorce Attorney?
Divorce attorneys work with clients who are facing various challenges, from separation to arranging child custody. Some clients are not ready for divorce yet, but have concerns; others may share children and homes but not be married.
In general, it is advisable to consult with a divorce attorney when:
- You want to learn about the options available to navigate a relationship. This could include exploring divorce, permanent amicable separation (or collaborative divorce), mediation, and more.
- You want to legally terminate the marriage but do not know what to do. An attorney can initiate filing the proper paperwork and ensuring everything relevant to the situation is declared and accounted for.
- You have separated from your partner but are still legally connected. An attorney can provide guidance on how to break that legal connection or maintain legal marriage benefits while properly separating assets.
- You have a spouse who is considering or has declared an intention to divorce. It is important to secure legal services as soon as you become aware of upcoming divorce proceedings. Your attorney can inform you about what to do next and, just as important, what not to do.
What Help Divorce Attorneys Provide
Divorce attorneys address a wide range of challenges that individuals and families face in the wake of a legal separation.
Most commonly, these include:
- Alimony
- The division of property
- Properly assessing and dividing highly valuable assets
- Defending the rights of fathers in the divorce process
- The assignment of child support and custody
- Understanding pre- and post-nuptial agreements
- Issues of domestic violence
- Challenges unique to LGBTQIA+ partners
- Addressing a contested divorce
These are just some of the many areas where divorce attorneys bring focused and impactful knowledge.
How Attorneys Benefit Parties in Divorce
Better Outcomes – The process of divorce is a complex and often emotionally taxing event. Some individuals feel too overwhelmed to search for a divorce attorney; however, studies have repeatedly shown that those who are represented by a divorce attorney most often experience better outcomes than those who do not. Similarly, research from the American Law and Economics Review shows that when the involved parties use attorneys, the overall duration of the divorce process is reduced significantly. This can save money, time, and emotional distress, further improving outcomes.- Division of Assets – One of the most significant challenges faced by those in divorce is the division of assets. Attorneys are invaluable in this aspect, as they can offer guidance on how to shield assets from division where possible and clarify which assets are not eligible for division. Similarly, they can assist in avoiding fees and other penalties associated with asset division stemming from accounts such as 401(K)s, which can improve the long-term financial wellness of their clients.
- Procedural Guidance and Experience – Add to this a divorce attorney’s knowledge of the proper paperwork, filings, and processes to facilitate a swift and simple resolution. Their guidance can help parties to avoid damaging their potential judgments, ranging from asset allocation to child custody and visitation agreements or alimony payments.
Securing a trustworthy legal professional is a wise investment for those actively facing divorce or considering their options in a relationship.
Attorneys can also help to draft pre- and post-nuptial agreements making their services valuable at any stage of the relationship.
In Laurel, Md, Seek Guidance from Divorce Attorneys at Any Stage
Whether you are newly married or considering separation after decades, securing the help of a divorce attorney can be invaluable for pre- or post-nuptial agreements, division of assets, or filing of divorce.
The attorneys at Milstein Siegel have helped families throughout Laurel, MD to navigate this challenging time. Contact the legal team at Milstein Siegel to schedule a consultation and establish a working relationship with someone who can help you navigate this difficult time or plan for the future.