October 23, 2012
/24-7PressRelease/ -- Do-It-Yourself Divorce Can Be Dangerous
Economic considerations have prompted more people in Washington and across the U. S. to represent themselves in divorce proceedings. People considering divorce should be aware of the dangers of going through a divorce without a lawyer.
Self-Representation Rising
The number of people acting pro se, or representing themselves, in divorces has increased across the country. In Washington, court records show that 55 percent of divorces without children had at least one spouse representing him or herself. Other states across the country report similar statistics.
After the downturn in the economy in 2008, countless people are suffering economically, and many considering divorcedo not think they have the money to hire a lawyer to represent them in their divorces. Additionally, since many have underwater mortgages due to the collapse of the real estate market, people believe they lack assets to divide between themselves and their spouses thereby further limiting the belief they have the financial wherewithal to hire an attorney to assist in the divorce process.
Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer
Those attempting to go through their divorces alone may not be aware of the pitfalls of acting pro se. People may think they are saving money by not hiring a lawyer for their divorces, but they may end up doing themselves harm in the long run.
An attorney can help ensure that a person's rights are protected during the divorce process. Lawyers have experience negotiating property settlements, spousal support and child custody and visitation arrangements. They have a better idea of what is fair in a division of assets or custody agreement than those without legal training may have. Attorneys will also offer guidance on complex financial matters during a time when people might not be thinking clearly due to the emotional toll that divorce can induce.
Using a lawyer can also reduce conflict in a divorce, contrary to what people may believe. In many cases, every time divorcing spouses attempt to discuss things they start to argue and nothing gets resolved. By communicating through third parties, settlement negotiations can proceed more efficiently and less acrimoniously.
Hiring a lawyer also has practical advantages. Lawyers stay current on changes in the law. They know how to draft the appropriate documents and the procedures for filing those documents with the court.
Divorce can seem like an overwhelming ordeal, and people should not try to handle it alone. If you have questions about divorce, contact a seasoned divorce attorney who can discuss your situation with you and advise you of your options.
Article provided by Law Offices of Gregory & Rooney, PLLC
Visit us at http://www.grrlegal.com/
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