Signs It's Time to Seek Legal Representation for a Divorce

Some divorces don't require lawyers, especially if the decision to separate was mutual. Members of couples who are planning to get divorced shouldn't just assume they won't need legal representation just because their partners agree that separation is the best possible outcome. Instead, they should keep an eye out for the following signs of trouble and find a divorce attorney wilmington residents can trust as soon as they appear.

Child Custody Issues

Everyone knows that having kids will change their lives, but few couples think about how it will impact their marriages, and even fewer consider what the ramifications will be if they eventually choose to get divorced. When the issue of child custody is involved, divorce proceedings can get extremely heated. It's never a good idea to enter a custody battle without legal representation even if the other parent has not hired a lawyer.

Marital Homes

Couples who share a marital home often have more trouble dividing assets. Even if one spouse owns the home, he or she shouldn't just assume that means it will not become an issue during divorce proceedings. When there's a good deal of money or property at stake, hiring a divorce attorney is by far the best way to ensure that assets are divided fairly.

History of Abuse

Anybody who is getting divorced to leave an abusive relationship should have a lawyer on his or her side. Domestic abuse creates an unhealthy power dynamic and makes it possible for one party to intimidate the other, which spells disaster when it comes to drafting equitable separation agreements. Abuse victims should always have a divorce lawyer on their side whether they intend to take additional legal measures against their abusers or not.

Shared Business Interests

Married couples who own businesses together should never pursue a divorce without consulting an attorney even if the circumstances surrounding the divorce are comparatively amicable. Not only is there often a good deal of money at stake when couples own businesses together, sorting out those finances tends to be extremely challenging.

Even with a lawyer, it may also be necessary to enlist the help of a financial appraiser or a consultant. An attorney can help his or her client sort out those details.

Seemingly Endless Disputes

Couples who have been engaged in a seemingly endless dispute prior to getting divorced are very unlikely to be able to separate amicably without any legal help. No one wants to be taken advantage of by a vengeful soon-to-be ex. Hiring a lawyer will prevent that from happening.