When you’re looking for divorce lawyers near me, you want to find a professional who knows how to handle your case. A good divorce attorney will know what to expect, how to work within your budget, and where to look to minimize your costs.
Avoid hiring a lawyer with no experience in military divorce
If you are considering filing for divorce, it is important to get a lawyer that has experience with military divorces. Although there are many aspects to a military divorce that are similar to a civilian divorce, there are also a few unique issues that you should be aware of.
A divorce can be a stressful time for all involved. You may be unsure about your legal rights and the effects that a divorce will have on your future. For a military spouse, getting divorced can be especially difficult. There are numerous regulations and complexities you should be aware of, including alimony, child support, and pension benefits.
Having an experienced attorney representing you in the divorce process is one of the best ways to protect your interests and ensure that the military benefits you’ve earned are taken into consideration. Many family law attorneys are unfamiliar with the intricacies of military divorce.
In addition to being able to help you establish and enforce legal rights, a military divorce attorney can also guide you through the complexities of the process. Some of these include determining which state you live in and the different steps you should take to prove your residency.
Reduce costs by resolving disputes out of court
The cost of filing for divorce is on the rise. However, the high cost of litigation can be mitigated by resolving disputes outside of the courtroom. Several bar associations offer mediation programs. Having a neutral third party to negotiate on your behalf can reduce the costs of a contentious divorce. Of course, you have to pick the right mediator. If you can’t settle the case on your own, you may have to seek legal aid. Using the services of a qualified mediator may not be as expensive as you think. Some mediators even take a portion of your fee in cash. Having a seasoned professional at your side can improve the odds of a smooth negotiated settlement. There is also the matter of time. For example, if your spouse is on vacation, you may have to wait a few days to see them again. Similarly, if your spouse is a jerk, a nagging feeling could mean a trip to the hospital.
Understand what you’ll be spending and where the money is going
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the tumultuous process of a divorce. The best thing to do is to take stock of the situation and start with a plan of attack. One of the first things on your agenda should be an inventory of your assets and liabilities. This includes your most valuable assets like your home, cars, and bank account. After a thorough assessment, you should be able to determine the cost of any given move or settlement in question and come up with an informed budget. While a formal separation and divorce can be a financial disaster, a good plan of attack can make the transition a saner one.
Consider mediation
Choosing to use mediation instead of a court proceeding may be the best choice for you and your spouse. It is less expensive than litigating and offers a more civil process. In addition, it allows you to avoid the emotional trauma of a long court battle.
Mediation is an opportunity to create a settlement that is mutually beneficial and works for both parties. The process also helps you to heal psychological rifts during a divorce. This option can also help you get started on your new life on a better financial footing.
During the process, you’ll have to take time to gather all the important information. This includes finances, medical records, and property appraisals. Your attorney can guide you through this process. If you decide to hire a mediator, you’ll need to find one who is reputable and has a support team.
When hiring a mediator, you can find a professional who can help you work through issues relating to child custody, spousal support, and asset division. Some professionals can also help you with drafting a legally binding separation agreement.