Too many couples think that they can simply get a divorce by using online forms. Unfortunately, not all forms apply to your state. Likewise, most of these sites do not have the complete documentation that you need to have your divorce in proper order before going before a judge. While initially you think you may be saving attorney fees by using these forms, generally you are losing more money in the long run. Many times people come to our offices to resolve post divorce issues that could have been prevented had the initial divorce been done by an experienced attorney. Hiring an attorney does not necessarily mean that you will be involved in lengthy litigation. But it does mean that you will know all your legal rights before agreeing to a settlement. Furthermore, an experienced attorney will know the procedures that need to be done to make sure the assets you receive by an agreement or by a judge will be protected.
There are several issues that can be involved with your divorce that may need special attention, such as:
- Retirement benefits - division and preservation with Qualified Domestic Relations Orders
- Wage assignments for payment of support
- Discovery of assets
- Restoration of non-marital assets (things owned before the marriage, inherited by one of the parties or gifted to one of the parties)
- Calculation of increase in non-marital interest in real estate
- Transfer of title of real estate and refinancing
- Medical expenses for any children
- Child Custody
- Assignment of Debts