Do I Need a Divorce Lawyer?

Chris HobsonFamily Law

Be Wary of “Do It Yourself” Divorce Packages

If you Google “File your own divorce” or “Divorce without a lawyer” you will see that there is an entire section of the legal industry that can help you with a “DIY Divorce”. At first blush, this can sound like a cost-effective way to get through a divorce. However, there are some very real and high stakes risks you are taking when you decide to prepare your own divorce. First, a judge needs to accept your divorce agreement. When people prepare their own divorce, it’s common for them to NOT be accepted by the court. Georgia’s family law courts have complex requirements that must be addressed in a divorce. Some family law judges can be impatient with people trying to file their own divorce, and the whole ordeal can end up being embarrassing and ineffective.

What’s even worse, you could have a divorce agreement accepted that does not treat you or your family fairly. 401(k) accounts and other retirement assets can be missed, spousal support can be miscalculated and custody agreements can end up being inconvenient or un-enforceable.

There are significant benefits that, for most divorcing couple’s financial situation, far outweigh the costs of hiring a divorce lawyer.

Guidance and Familiarity with the Process, Courts and System
When you work with an experienced divorce lawyer, this is not the first time they have been through the divorce process. They know what to expect, and how to work through the divorce process towards the best possible outcome for you and your family.

Objective Counsel to help you know when to fight and what to fight for
Divorce can be an emotionally charged process, and there are times that conflict is inevitable. However, there are also times when it’s best to keep the process moving forward. At Hobson & Hobson, we work with you to understand your priorities and what is important to you and your children. Then, we build a plan and execute it without getting caught up in unneeded conflict.

Someone who will pursue your best interest and outcome
Many people who are working through a divorce are afraid of being seen as self-serving, money-hungry or manipulative. While we want to be as respectful everyone involved as possible, this is not a popularity contest; we are working towards protecting you and your family’s future. There are times when your interest and the interest of your children needs to be pursued or protected aggressively. We can help you do that without you having to feel like you are asking for too much. People are naturally self-conscious when they have to protect their own interests, we will aggressively protect your interests without hesitation.

Shaping you and your family’s financial future and emotional well-being
The issues that are settled during your divorce will have a dramatic impact on you and your family’s life for years to come. The divorce is not carved into stone, but divorce modifications are time consuming and can be expensive. You don’t want to have to re-visit any of the financial or custody issues that are settled in your divorce anytime in the near future. Rely on our experience to help ensure that your divorce is done right the first time and that you are on your way to starting and enjoying your new life.

If you’re facing a divorce, don’t make the mistake of going at it alone. While it may save you some money in the short term, there is a much greater risk to settling for less than you are entitled to / more than you are obligated to which can end up costing you thousands of dollars for years to come. To learn more about Georgia Family Law, how it applies to your situation and your options for moving forward, call for an initial consultation with an experienced attorney. Contact us Today.