What is a Divorce Lawyer?
Divorce Lawyers these days tend to refer to themselves by the friendlier-sounding and broader-in-scope term of Family Lawyer or Family Law practitioner. There is a lot more to this area of the law than just divorce cases, although situations of family breakdown remain the core focus of the work of a Family Lawyer.
Most people do not require a lot of guidance about when the services of a Divorce Lawyer are needed. They also understand the issues involved, such as distribution of family assets, support payments, and child custody and visitation rights. It might be worthwhile noting, however, that two people do not have to be married for each to have most, if not all, of the same rights at the end of a long-term cohabitative relationship that married persons have.
When Do I Need a Lawyer?
There is no question that the wisest course of action for a person thinking about ending a marriage or long-term cohabitation is to first consult with a Divorce Lawyer, and we really do mean that you should speak with a Divorce Lawyer before doing or saying anything related to acting on your decision. It’s inevitable that emotions will be running high soon enough, so a Divorce Lawyer’s help planning your exit strategy will ensure you do not do anything that might negatively affect your rights.
Even though it may not be obvious from the use of the word “Divorce,” a Divorce Lawyer can also be a valuable resource even before you get married. Of course, we are referring here to the not uncommon practice of a couple entering into a prenuptial agreement. Although it is not particularly romantic to think about separation and divorce when making wedding arrangements, it is certainly practical.