Do I Need a Divorce or Custody Lawyer?
Divorce lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in the dissolution of marriage and custody cases. It is possible to proceed with a divorce or custody with no representation, but there are risks associated with that course of action. If the other side is represented, the process may seem one-sided and unfair. If you do not know the ins and outs of the legal system as well as a professional, you may not be able to secure the best outcome for yourself and your family as if you had a divorce and custody lawyer.
The primary role of a divorce and custody lawyer is to represent clients who are seeking a divorce, helping them to navigate the legal process and achieve a fair and favorable outcome.
Here are some of the key tasks that divorce and custody lawyers typically perform:
- Advising clients: Divorce and custody lawyers provide legal advice to clients, explaining the various options available to them and helping them to make informed decisions.
- Filing divorce petitions, motions, notices, requests, and all necessary filings: Divorce and custody lawyers prepare and file all the necessary documents in a case on behalf of their clients, outlining the issues, the legal authority, and the relief sought. Most, if not all filings, have a timing requirement and must be filed on or before certain dates. Working with a divorce and custody lawyer ensures the timely filings in your case.
- Negotiating settlements: Divorce and custody lawyers work to negotiate a settlement that is fair and equitable for their client, including property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support.
- Representing clients in court: If a case goes to trial, divorce and custody lawyers represent their clients in court, presenting evidence and arguments on their behalf. This requires skill, preparation, and legal knowledge. Most trial’s are much shorter than people expect, and it is important to present an efficient case that complies with the Colorado Rules of Procedure and Evidence.
- Drafting legal documents: Divorce and custody lawyers prepare legal documents, such as agreements, orders, and pleadings, that are necessary for the divorce process.
- Mediating disputes: Divorce lawyers may also act as mediators, helping couples to reach a settlement through negotiation and compromise rather than litigation.
Overall, divorce lawyers play an important role in helping individuals navigate the complex and emotionally charged process of divorce, ensuring that their legal rights and interests are protected throughout. Good divorce and custody lawyers are not just lawyers for men or lawyers for women, but are able to represent any client competently.
Divorce and Custody lawyers can be expensive. A cheap divorce and custody lawyer may or may not be able to obtain a good outcome for you, but the same is true for an expensive divorce and custody lawyer. It is important to talk to a divorce and custody lawyer that hears you, and understands what you want for your family, and will work to achieve that goal. The best practice would be to schedule a handful of consultations before selecting your divorce or custody lawyer.