Consider this if you plan on representing yourself in divorce

If you’re sitting there reading this blog and wondering whether you need an attorney to assist you with your divorce, you’re not alone. Many people think that they can handle marriage dissolution matters on their own, especially when they can amicably work with their soon-to-be ex-spouse. Yet, approaching a divorce on your own is risky business.

There are many reasons why going it alone when it comes to divorce can put you at a disadvantage. For example, many people simply don’t understand the legal standards that are in place when it comes to divorce. Sure, they might know that child custody matters are decided in the best interests of the child, but they may not know what factors the court will take into consideration when assessing a child’s best interests. To better ensure outcomes that fit your needs, you need to utilize the law to your advantage, which means knowing it and how it applies to your situation.

Additionally, many people who try to address divorce legal issues on their own don’t recognize that they could be entitled to much more than they are getting. This is especially true in property division and child support matters. Connecticut is an equitable distribution state, which does not mean that property has to be divided evenly. Instead, marital property must be divided in a way that is fair. Depending on the circumstances at hand, this could mean that you are entitled to more than half of the marital estate.

Also, many legal issues can be readdressed after divorce. Child custody modifications may be warranted when a change in circumstances arise, child support can be changed with the loss of a job or an increase in the noncustodial parent’s pay, and spousal support can be halted when the receiving spouse remarries.

Yet, far too often individuals fail to recognize that they have the ability to come back and readdress these issues. Instead, they sometimes enter into binding agreements that lock them into a resolution that won’t always fit their needs.

Sure, addressing divorce on your own could save you a few bucks up front. However, in our experience, divorced individuals often seek out legal assistance to address family law issues shortly after their marriage dissolution is finalized. Wouldn’t you rather have peace of mind?

We hope that those who are considering divorce will seek out the help they need on the front end to better protect themselves further down the road. After all, a strong legal ally can help you fight for what is right, even when you yourself find it difficult to do so.