What’s The Point Of An Attorney During An Uncontested Divorce?

Paying for uncontested divorce attorney services can seem a little odd. Unless you and your former partner have nothing to split up in terms of assets, debts, and child custody, though, there are some pretty good reasons to hire counsel. Let's look at 5 of the best arguments for getting an uncontested divorce attorney.

Making Sure the Paperwork Is Right

The odds that two people working without counsel are going to file the right paperwork and fill it out properly are pretty low. Even an uncontested divorce is legally recognized as a lawsuit, and that means there's more to it than just parting ways. You'll need to make sure you're filing in the right jurisdiction, and you'll also want to confirm that you include all the necessary paperwork like your original marriage certificate, prenuptial agreements, and lists of assets.

Dealing with Assets, Debts, and Taxes

Assets have to be assigned to one of the two former partners in a marriage. It is possible to sell things, such as your house, and divide the proceeds, too.

Outstanding debts and taxes also have to be addressed. Generally, the person who will most profit from whatever is involved should take on the debt. For example, someone who gets a particular car could agree to take on the remaining payments. Some former couples also may assign payments to the more financially advantaged partner as a favor or in lieu of a percentage of support.

Protecting Your Rights

Just because someone isn't trying to violate your rights doesn't mean they're magically protected. An uncontested divorce attorney can help you learn what your rights are and what you're entitled to. They also can raise questions if, for example, you appear to be letting your ex off a bit lightly.

Looking Out for Your Interests

Life after a divorce is hard to plan for. Fortunately, your lawyer has likely worked with lots of folks who've been there and done that. They can remind you to look out for basic issues, such as whether you'll have a place to live and how you'll pay for it. This is a conversation you'll want to have before you sign divorce papers.

Anticipating Future Issues

Your divorce doesn't just govern the end of your marriage, with things going back to zero. Long-term problems have to be addressed based on the terms of the divorce. For example, folks with kids will want to make sure custody is assigned in a way that clarifies which relatives would get custody if both parents died.

To learn more, contact a resource like Ritter & LeClere APC Attorneys At Law.


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