Do you share children, debts and assets with a spouse that you intend on divorcing? It is in your best interest to hire a lawyer, like those at Strother Law Office, to help you get through the divorce in the smoothest manner possible, especially if your spouse contests the divorce. A family lawyer may be able to help your spouse agree to some of the things disputed without having to leave it up to a judge, which could end up being a long process.

How Can a Family Lawyer Make the Divorce Process Smoother?

Before drafting up your divorce documents, a family lawyer may try to set up a mediation session with your spouse in an attempt to come to an agreement on the divorce terms. A divorce that is agreed upon will take less time to finalize than one with a lot of conflict. If your spouse does not agree to the terms or sign the divorce papers, your lawyer will be able to proceed without a signature.

When determining who will maintain custody of the children, joint custody is usually the most ideal. The children will spend an equal amount of time with both of you with joint custody. Your spouse should not be deprived of parental rights if he or she is not a negligent or abusive parent. If left to the court to decide, a decision will be made that is in the best interest of the children. Income, living conditions and time available for the children will be considered.

Assets must also get divided in a fair manner. If there is no prenuptial agreement, your lawyer can help you get a fair share of property, money and other items that were obtained during the marriage. Debts accumulated in the marriage must also be settled in the divorce, such as who will pay off what. A lawyer may be able to help you get out of paying off debts if you depended on your spouse financially throughout the marriage.

What is the Cost of a Family Lawyer?

The cost of a family lawyer will depend on the length of the divorce process, as they typically charge an hourly rate. The specific price you will pay per hour is at the discretion of whoever is hired. You will be provided with a quote when you have a consultation discussing your needs.

Going through a divorce can be a stressful time to pass through in life. Allow a family lawyer to make your situation less complicated so the process will be finalized in an exceptional amount of time!