Are you planning to represent yourself in a divorce proceeding. I have one word for that decision: “MISTAKE.” Where significant property or custody issues are involved, it is suicide to represent yourself in a divorce proceeding. In most states, divorce laws are very complicated to understand. Valuing assets and dividing them fairly is a tricky proposition. Moreover, it takes a fair level of negotiation to hammer out a custody arrangement and child support that is fair to both parties.

Instead of taking a chance, find a divorce attorney to ensure that you are treated fairly by the court system. Take a minute to read this short guide so that you can determine how a qualified family attorney can protect your interests and those of your family.

Property and assets are a major point of contention in a divorce proceeding. Having more property, money and assets makes the entire divorce more complicated. In dividing the property, each party must make a determine of both the fair market value of the property (as well as its value to each party).

While it may be relatively straightforward to value cash and marketable securities, the value of a retirement account or family business may be more complicated. A divorce attorney can assess the factors necessary to arrive at the value of an asset or find experts who can do that for you. Even if the parties are able to agree upon the valuation and division of assets, the real issue is custody of children and support.

Many divorce proceedings get ugly when it comes time to negotiate custody arrangements. The legal standard in most states is to fashion a solution that is in “the best interest of the children.”

Children should not be used as “weapons” to harm an estranged spouse. They had no say in the decision to get divorced in the first place. Custody issues can be further complicated where the child is older and the state law gives the child a voice in determining custody and residence. As you can see, the complicating factors associated with custody and support of children underscore the need to hire a family lawyer to ensure that the custody and support arrangement are fair and in the best interest of the children involved.

If you have property or custody issues, you have no business representing yourself. Instead, you need to hire a divorce attorney who can help you protect your rights. Find an attorney by researching them on the internet or asking trusted friends or relatives for a referral.

But, remember, you need to find an attorney that practices family law because only a divorce lawyer has the experience and expertise to address the complications surrounding valuation of assets and calculation of child support and custody or minor children. A divorce lawyer will help you draft a settlement agreement that preserves and protects your rights as well as the rights of your children. If the case goes to trial, a divorce attorney will ensure that the court system treats you with the respect and dignity you deserve. All in all, the divorce attorney will be “in your corner” protecting your interests at a time where you will not be thinking or acting rationally.

Now that you understand the issues involves, do you understand why you need a divorce attorney? Where there is a large marital estate or there are children involved, you simply cannot afford to represent yourself. Property valuation and division is tricky and can lead to an unequal distribution of property. Custody issues cause tempers and emotions to run high. You need a divorce attorney to help you value property fairly and find an arrangement that is in the best interest of the children, even in the midst of high emotions.

When you are dealing with either of these issues, hiring a divorce attorney represents a smart investment in terms of time and money. You are not a lawyer and your divorce is not a “do it yourself” project.

Find out more on how to select a divorce lawyer.

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