Whether you’ve been contemplating divorce for awhile, or you and your spouse have recently decided to call it quits, it’s never easy to end your marriage and begin the legal process while you deal with the emotional implications simultaneously. In researching your options and next steps, it’s likely that you’ve come across “DIY” divorce templates online. While these documents offer advantages like the convenience of completing them at home, on your own time, and (sometimes) at no expense, the effects of using this option to divorce can cost you in the long run. Below are 5 reasons seeking the help of a professional divorce attorney is essential to complete the divorce process and end your marriage in the best way possible.
- DIY Divorce Documents Don’t Get You
Have you ever filled out a lengthy form of questions at the doctor’s office? Then when you get called back, your doctor asks you why you’re in for a visit? Have you ever wondered why that is? It’s because your answers to a few generic questions aren’t going to help your doctor figure out what’s wrong with you, what medication you need, etc. In this scenario, think of the survey of questions as a way of filing for divorce on your own, and the doctor as a divorce attorney. Just like a survey of questions can’t diagnose you, a DIY divorce template can’t figure out the best way to divide your assets, property, and create a custody arrangement for your children. Skipping the DIY divorce and going straight to a professional source with experience and knowledge is the best way to ensure a smooth divorce process.
A good divorce attorney will take the time to get to know you and the circumstances of your divorce so they can understand your goals for your case. They’ll also tailor a strategy to your unique situation as no two divorces are the same. A DIY template doesn’t have the capacity to do these things.
- Divorce Attorneys Understand The Law
There are many intricacies involved in the divorce process that can be difficult to understand and navigate alone. If you choose to forgo the help of a professional divorce attorney and opt for the DIY route, it can result in costly mistakes that delay your case. A skilled divorce attorney will have a thorough understanding of Alabama’s divorce laws and any specific legal nuances that are applicable to your situation so that they can advocate for your interests while making sure you remain legally compliant throughout the process. They can also use their experience to explain your options, like mediation, uncontested divorce, litigation, and more so that you can make informed decisions regarding your assets and other important matters. They will guard your legal rights and inform you of your legal responsibilities.
- DIY Templates May Not Be Legitimate
DIY templates are often perceived as a “quick fix,” for divorce, but sometimes they lack the required language and other requirements needed to make a divorce legitimate. When it comes to something as important as this, taking chances isn’t going to get you the result you want and need during an already difficult transition. While a DIY template might provide the basic framework of a divorce, it typically isn’t going to outline all of the documentation you need to complete and have prepared, resulting in potential oversights that might come back to haunt you later.
A divorce attorney is going to help you avoid making errors that can stall your case, bring up disputes, or add stress to a chaotic situation.
- Divorce Attorneys Can Negotiate & Litigate On Your Behalf
In addition to offering you sound advice, a divorce attorney can also help you negotiate the terms of your divorce with your spouse. A DIY template leaves no room for negotiation or even litigation because it’s a pre-designed document with a one-size-fits-all approach. It will not account for the unique circumstances that surround your divorce.
If you and your spouse are on amicable terms, and you’re able to take a more peaceful approach to going your separate ways, an attorney can offer invaluable guidance when it’s time to negotiate spousal support, child custody and support, the division of assets and property, and more. They can also help you fight for the things that matter most to you if matters between you and your spouse become contentious, or if they already were to begin with. A good divorce attorney is well-versed in courtroom procedures, has a strong understanding of divorce law in your area, and isn’t afraid to fight for a favorable outcome on your behalf. Whether it’s advocating for more assets, protecting your parental rights, or something else, a divorce attorney will be by your side at each crossroad, helping you get to the other side.
- Divorce Attorneys Advocate For Your Interests
Lastly, a divorce attorney will advocate for your interests. If you DIY your divorce, you may save some money, and you might not have to leave the comfort of your own home, but will you have peace of mind that your interests are being diligently protected and fought for? Will you wonder if you submitted all the right paperwork (prenups, postnups, bank statements, etc.) and checked the right boxes? It’s a divorce attorney’s job to take on the responsibility of shielding you from the potential legal downfalls involved in divorce. They have the experience and knowledge to anticipate possible curveballs and handle them when they come your way.
Ditch DIY – Call A Divorce Attorney
While the allure of a DIY divorce might seem like the best route to take, it can lead you to a dead end of mistakes, and extra legal fees to fix those mistakes. By enlisting the help of a seasoned attorney, you gain knowledge, security, and support through one of life’s most challenging times.
How Foxtrot Family Law Can Help You
If you’re considering your options for divorce, let Foxtrot Family Law be the one you call. We understand how hard it is to end your marriage, which is why we do everything we can to make the process as seamless as possible. Call today to request a consultation and learn about your next steps. We will explain your options and protect your rights.
