The Michigan State Bar notes that in civil cases, such as divorces, it is important to consider a variety of factors when deciding whether or not to hire a lawyer to represent you. Some key factors to consider include: how complex the legal matter at hand is, the impact that the outcome of the case may have on the lives of those involved, and how much retaining a lawyer will cost. The State Bar also notes that it is a good idea to consult with a lawyer at the outset in order to determine whether or not his/her services are required. Therefore, we recommend that you read through the pros and cons commonly associated with retaining a divorce lawyer that are listed below and then contact a local divorce attorney.
Pros
Some pros commonly associated with hiring a divorce attorney include:
- Lawyers are Familiar With Matrimonial Law and Family Court While You, Presumably, Are Not: If you choose to represent yourself in court, you will not be given any special treatment. In other words, you will be expected to know the relevant law, to abide by all applicable civil procedures, and you will not be given any “do overs” if you make a mistake. Additionally, you will likely be going up against your spouse’s attorney in court whom, presumably, is an experienced family law attorney who knows the relevant tricks of the trade. You will be held to the same standards as this seasoned professional if you choose to represent yourself.
- A Lawyer Can Provide Objective Advice: Getting divorced is often an incredibly stressful experience and, as a result, spouses in the midst of a divorce often have a hard time seeing the big picture. This often leads spouses to make irrational decisions based on emotions that they later come to regret. An experienced family law attorney can help provide objective advice throughout this stressful process and ensure that you rationally think through each important decision that must be made during the divorce process.
- Hiring a Lawyer Take a Lot of Work and Stress Off of Your Hands: Getting divorced involves an incredible amount of paperwork. It also involves deadlines that cannot be missed and persuading the court to rule in your favor on many important issues such as child custody, spousal support, and asset division. Hiring an attorney takes a great deal of this work and stress off of your plate.
Cons
Some cons commonly associated with hiring a divorce attorney include:
- Hiring an Attorney May Cause Drama: If you blindside your spouse by hiring a divorce attorney without warning it may cause a certain amount of drama. Your spouse may think that because you’ve lawyered up you’re trying to take them to the cleaner and that you won’t act reasonably during the divorce process.
- Hiring a Lawyer Can be Pricey: Retaining a lawyer can be expensive, especially if your divorce is messy and drawn out. But, on the other hand, divorces that are messy and drawn out can often benefit the most from professional legal assistance.
Find Out What The Law Offices of Michael A. Robbins Can Do For You
Still on the fence about whether or not to hire a divorce attorney? Why not schedule an initial consultation at the Law Offices of Michael A. Robbins to find out what we can do for you? Attorney Michael Robbins runs one of Michigan’s most prominent family law practices, was previously the chairman of the Family Law Section of the Michigan State Bar Association, has been named one of the best family law lawyers in America, and represents clients throughout Michigan. To schedule a meeting with Mr. Robbins contact our Bloomfield Hills office today at (248) 646-7980.