Why You Should Have a Divorce Attorney~ 3 min read

Even the simplest divorce can create costly mistakes if you go through it alone.  A family law attorney will protect your rights, help you make sound decisions, and prevent problems that could surface years later.   The short-term savings on representing yourself can end up costing you more in legal fees over the long-term.

Emotions Make It Hard to Think Like a Business Deal

Divorce is both legal and emotional. When you try to represent yourself, emotions can take over and cloud your judgment. You may agree to something just to get it over with, or you may refuse to compromise when a fair settlement is possible. An attorney gives you an objective perspective and helps you focus on the legal and financial issues that will affect you long term.

You Don’t Know All the Law                                    

Even if you have a general idea of Missouri divorce law, you will not know all the details. Laws about property division, child support, tax deductions, and retirement accounts are complicated. For example, Missouri uses a specific formula called Form 14 for child support. Without training, it is very easy to make mistakes on this form that could cost you money or lead to an order that is unfair.  You could also create issues that could affect or even limit your rights later.  An attorney knows how to apply the law and how judges will typically rule on any disagreements in your county.

Judges Have Different Approaches

Every judge has tendencies and preferences. For example, some are more likely to award spousal support, or may lean on the higher or lower end, while others may be unlikely to award it at all.. If you represent yourself, you will not know what your judge expects or how they usually rule. An attorney who practices regularly in these courts does know, and that knowledge can make a big difference in the outcome.

Risk of Giving Up Too Much

When you represent yourself, it is easy to give up things you are legally entitled to without realizing it. People often agree to terms that sound fair in the moment, but they do not fully understand what they are trading away or where it may have already been considered. Without legal guidance, you may walk away with less than you should receive, and you may not find out until much later that you gave up valuable rights. An attorney makes sure you do not agree to something that harms your long-term future.

Paperwork Protects You

The self-help forms for divorces in Missouri are very basic. They often leave out important language that protects you if something goes wrong. Issues like retirement division, tax consequences, or even how property is listed can be mishandled if you use these forms without legal guidance. Many people also do not realize that all property must be included, even separate property. Leaving items off the paperwork can create serious problems years later when questions come up about ownership. These mistakes may not show up until much later, sometimes when you retire or try to sell property, and they can be very expensive to fix.

Attorneys Support Peaceful Resolutions Too

Hiring an attorney does not mean your divorce will turn into a court battle. Your lawyer can help you settle through Mediation, Collaborative Divorce, or direct negotiation saving you time and money. The benefit is that you have someone to answer your questions and make sure the agreement is complete and enforceable.

Contact Family Ally

Divorce affects your future in many ways, from your finances to your family. Having the right attorney by your side can give you confidence that nothing important is overlooked. Family Ally is here to guide you through the process and protect what matters most. Contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation.

Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.