Law

Three Reasons You May Want to Hire a Divorce Lawyer in Forest Hills, MI

While it is not a legal requirement to hire an attorney when you get a divorce, having an attorney on your side gives you lots of benefits. Hiring an attorney costs money, but an attorney can help you navigate through the divorce process with less hassles and stress. Plus, your attorney will ensure your interests and concerns are heard.

In certain situations, divorcing with a divorce lawyer in forest hills, MI may be costlier and riskier than working with an experienced attorney. Without the assistance of a good lawyer, your divorce can go poorly, leading to unfavorable outcomes. Hiring an attorney makes a lot of sense if you fall into the following categories:

You Have Minor Children

Disputes over child custody, support, and parenting time are quite contentious during a divorce. As a parent, you want your children to get the best care they deserve and want to spend as much time with them as possible. However, this might also be the wishes of your spouse. And you might not agree about what is best for your children. The representation of a divorce lawyer increases the possibility of you paying or getting appropriate child support. Also, they can increase your chances of having favorable parenting time and custody arrangements.

The Divorce Involves Significant Assets or Debt

Even if you own just a small family business, division can still be complicated. And you may not expect all the possible issues a lawyer would. If your soon-to-be ex ran up substantial debt during your marriage, you could end up paying much of this unless you let a lawyer advocate for you. If your marital home is still not fully paid, you need a lawyer to help you distribute the obligations fairly. 

When property and debt are distributed in a divorce, going back and changing this distribution may no longer be possible. Plus, trying to change it can be quite expensive. If you have a lawyer representing you, you will get what is fair. 

You Want Spousal Support

While spousal support is not mandatory in Michigan, it is common. You and your spouse agree to it or a judge orders it in their discretion. A lot of factors such as both parties’ health and length of marriage can impact whether you get awarded spousal support. Your lawyer can negotiate on your behalf. If needed, they can present related information to the court to show what is most favorable to you.