Making the decision to file for divorce and end one’s marriage is not where husbands and wives see themselves when they said, “I do” years before. It is the first of many decisions that parties looking to dissolve their union will have to make, and navigating the complicated waters of dissolution or divorce alone can be a challenge.
That is why consulting with an experienced family law attorney at the outset of the process is essential to gain a better understanding of the legal intricacies that will impact the terms of your dissolution or divorce. You want an attorney who will work for your best interests when providing legal advice on divorce.
Legal Advice on Divorce Before Filing
There are several things you should avoid before filing for divorce to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible.
- Don‘t Make Major Financial Decisions — Avoid making large purchases, selling assets, or transferring money between accounts without consulting your attorney. These actions can complicate the division of assets during divorce proceedings.
- Don’t Hide Assets — Be transparent about your financial situation. Hiding assets can lead to legal consequences and may harm your case in court.
- Don’t Engage in Contentious Behavior — Avoid confrontations and arguments with your spouse, as this can escalate tensions and make negotiations more difficult.
- Don’t Involve Children in Disputes — Keep children out of any disagreements between you and your spouse. Shield them from the emotional strain of the divorce process as much as possible.
- Don’t Neglect Your Support System — Lean on friends, family, or a therapist for emotional support during this challenging time. Don’t isolate yourself.
- Don’t Ignore Your Legal Rights — Consult with a family law attorney to fully understand your legal options and familiarize yourself with your rights and responsibilities during the divorce process.
- Don’t Rush into New Relationships — Give yourself time to heal before entering a new relationship. Rushing into a new relationship can complicate the divorce process and impact your emotional well-being.
- Don’t Neglect Your Health — Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Divorce can be stressful, so it’s important to prioritize your health and well-being.
Select the Right Family Law Attorney
Before filing any legal action, you must select a family law attorney to give you the best possible legal advice on divorce. Finding the best family law attorney in Northeast Ohio is a process that should not be rushed. Here are a few tips on how to successfully find an attorney that meets your specific needs.
- Research and Referrals — Start by asking friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. You can also research online or contact your local bar association for referrals to reputable family law attorneys. Read online reviews and testimonials from previous clients.
- Schedule Consultations — Meet with several attorneys for initial consultations to discuss your case. Use this opportunity to assess their communication style, expertise, and how comfortable you feel working with them.
- Ask Questions — During the consultation, ask questions about their experience with cases like yours, their approach to handling family law matters, and their fees and billing practices.
- Consider — Choose an attorney who understands your goals and is willing to work with you to achieve them. Consider their communication style, availability, and how well you can work together.
- Evaluate Cost — While cost should not be the only factor in your decision, it is essential to understand the attorney’s fee structure and ensure it aligns with your budget and expectations.
- Review the Agreement — Before hiring an attorney for legal advice on divorce, carefully review the retainer agreement or engagement letter. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your working relationship.
The Manning & Clair Difference
The attorneys at Manning & Clair have extensive experience providing legal advice on divorce and family law. Should you need expert assistance identifying the best path for your divorce, put our knowledge to work for you.
Manning & Clair Note: The information shared here is intended for a general overview and discussion of the subject. It is not intended to be, and should not be used as, a substitute for taking legal advice in any specific situation. Please consult an attorney for advice about your individual situation.
