How to Decide if you Need an Attorney

1. After deciding to divorce, this is one of the most important decisions you will make in your divorce.

2. Fundamental question: “How confident you are that you can learn, understand and weigh the legal implications of your decisions?”

3. Specific Considerations

• Common situations that often support hiring an attorney:
  • Financial Complexity
  • Child Custody Disputes
  • Spousal Maintenance/Alimony
  • Legal Advice
  • Special Circumstances
  • If you cannot make decisions for yourself
• You may not need a lawyer if:
  • Feeling confident
  • High level of understanding
  • You are organized and fully understand your finances
  • You have time to focus on the divorce
  • Case is simple and high level of agreement
  • Comfortable learning the law

4. Making the decision

1. Assess the complexity of your divorce.
2. Reflect on your comfort level with legal processes.
3. Consider any power differential or and/or your ability to make decisions in your own best interest
4. Consider consults with attorneys to learn more
5. Could use an attorney for a limited purpose

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Try the PartWise quiz to help you determine if you need an attorney.