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If you are contemplating divorce, you may have a growing list of questions about what is involved in the process, including how much it will cost, how long it will take to finalize, and who will have custody of your children. It is a major decision that will impact your whole family. Whether you have decided to proceed with a divorce or are still considering the pros and cons of trying to make the marriage work, it is never too early to get some sound legal advice from an experienced divorce lawyer. Taking this step does not mean that you have decided to get a divorce. However, it will give you some clarity that will help you determine how you want to proceed.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Divorce Lawyer Before Filing?
It is a common misconception that hiring a divorce lawyer means that you have decided to file for divorce. However, working with a divorce lawyer early on will help you make the right decision, whether proceeding with a divorce or trying to address your issues and save your marriage. A lawyer will help you consider your options by providing the following legal advice:
- Discuss the divorce law basics. You may have questions about the difference between divorce and separation, how issues like alimony, child support, and property division will be resolved, and the steps involved in the divorce process. Your divorce lawyer will address all of your questions and concerns so that you will better understand the process and make a more informed decision.
- Explain the divorce timeline. One of clients’ most common questions is how long the divorce process will take. Understanding the timeline and how long each step of the process will likely take will help you decide whether to proceed with a divorce or focus on what brought you together in the first place.
- Discuss the different divorce options. Depending on the nature of your divorce, several alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods will be available, including collaborative divorce and mediation. If your relationship has become contentious, you may anticipate a high-conflict divorce, which will likely be more time-consuming and expensive.
- Pre-divorce planning. A customized pre-divorce plan will ensure that you have a plan if you decide to divorce. Creating a pre-divorce plan has many benefits, including gathering critical legal documents, considering the best strategy for determining how and when to tell your spouse, and preparing the documents so that the necessary documents are ready if you decide to begin the process officially.
There are certain situations where it is in your best interest to hire a divorce lawyer before you officially file for divorce, including:
- Your spouse has engaged in violent or abusive behavior towards you or your children.
- You believe your spouse is lying or vindictive about essential issues.
- There are complicated property or financial matters.
- Your spouse has already hired a divorce lawyer.
Our Skilled Paramus Divorce Lawyers at TMO Law LLC Assist Clients at Every Stage of the Process
If you are considering getting a divorce but are still determining whether it is the right decision, contact our Paramus divorce lawyers at TMO Law LLC. We will address your questions and concerns. If you intend to file for divorce, we will protect your legal rights and pursue the best possible settlement outcome. To schedule a confidential consultation, call us today at 201-971-4866 or complete our online form. Located in Paramus, New Jersey, we serve clients in Bergen, Passaic, Morris, Essex, and Hudson Counties, and northern New Jersey.