Landon KellyIf you have decided that it is in your best interest to file for an Affordable Divorce, now is the time to begin looking for a divorce attorney to help with the proceedings. Attorneys are available in all areas of the state and they offer a wide range of services. They strive to give their clients the highest quality service and representation. They will do their research on your situation and recommend the appropriate course of action based on your individual circumstances. Here are some of the common questions that divorce attorneys commonly face when working with their clients about affordable divorce:
What is an Affordable Divorce? Many couples choose to get an Affordable Divorce because it is less expensive than a contested divorce where a judge can potentially make the decision. Cheap divorce attorneys will aggressively defend your legal interests, review your legal papers and those of your ex-spouse, and determine the most efficient course of action and advice for you today and into the future. There are many methods to achieve an affordable divorce and cheap divorce attorneys offer several of them. Low-cost appointment plans and payment arrangements are also available for all budgets.
How do I find an affordable divorce lawyer cost? There are several ways to lower the overall cost of legal representation. If you have money to spare, you may want to consider hiring an attorney who accepts your case on a contingency fee basis, which means that you only pay out of pocket costs if you win the case. This type of payment arrangement often allows you to focus on other aspects of your life while having the peace of mind that your legal representation is truly invaluable.
How do I access my marital assets during a divorce? When you and your spouse separate, one of the first things that most divorce attorneys suggest is that you divide your assets equally. This usually means that you split the value of your house, jewelry, clothing, personal effects, business assets, and retirement accounts among yourself and your spouse. It is important to bear in mind that the court may impose restrictions on how you divide the assets of a separation agreement.
What about a pre-settlement opinion? A pre-settlement opinion, or SPO, is a written evaluation of the division of the settlement between you and your spouse. SPOs are frequently provided by expert divorce lawyers, although it is possible to get a recommendation for one from a neutral party. SPOs can save money because they often establish the terms of the settlement in a manner that is beneficial to you.
Can a pre-settlement opinion be offered after the settlement is reached? Yes, but your lawyer may advise against it. Many divorce lawyers believe that the SPO provides the most accurate information about the settlement that is possible and that offering it immediately results in a higher settlement offer. Moreover, divorce lawyers may charge more if you agree to a settlement SPO rather than presenting your case in court.
Should you use an attorney to provide legal advice or representation? Only an attorney can give you legal advice, so it is critical that you consider carefully whom you select to represent you. The first step in choosing an attorney is to evaluate whether the attorney is a member of the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) and if he or she accepts the qualifications set forth in the ethical code of the association. Many NALA-certified attorneys also attend and pass NALA’s rigorous, post-bar examination.
Are there other fees associated with a settlement? You should ask about fees for records, filing fees, proposed settlements, divorce lawyers’ fees, and any other fees that may be due. Divorce attorneys may also bill you for living expenses while you’re in the process of divorce. It is important that you review all documents regarding settlement with your divorce lawyer. This includes notarized copies of the final decree, the court’s order granting the motion for summary divorce, and any additional financial information from which you can make an informed decision regarding your future lifestyle.