Divorce is a difficult process, and it is important to understand when it is time to hire a divorce lawyer. A divorce lawyer can only represent one spouse in a divorce, so if your spouse has already hired a lawyer, it is important to consult with your own lawyer to protect your interests. Even if you and your spouse have an agreement, hiring a lawyer by your spouse can be a sign that you no longer have an agreement. Consulting with your own lawyer can help you assess the situation and better protect your interests. In most states, spouses can file for divorce based on a no-fault ground, which means that no one is to blame for the breakup.
It is important to hire a specific lawyer who understands your needs and goals. If your spouse's lawyer has already served you the divorce papers, it is important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. If you and your spouse are on the same page about what you want for your family, you may be able to negotiate a divorce settlement on your own. Usually, a judge will not approve a divorce agreement that is sharply biased in favor of one or the other spouse. With collaborative divorce, both spouses must hire attorneys who are specially trained in collaborative law and commit to avoiding court.
It is best that they hire a specialized lawyer who can fix their assets to avoid conflicts and misunderstandings resulting from the uneven distribution of properties. Fault cases usually take longer to resolve in court because you have to provide admissible evidence and prove to a judge that the misconduct occurred and caused the divorce. In some states, spouses may alternatively base their divorce on a separation for a specified period of time. Meeting with a lawyer can give you information about how they can help you with your case and whether it's time to hire a lawyer. If you are not sure which course to take as you prepare to address your divorce, keep in mind that you can consult with an attorney at any time without committing to hiring them.