A divorce is a very difficult time for most people. Even in situations where the couple agrees to the divorce and there are no children of the marriage, making that final break in the relationship and dividing up assets and liabilities can be a challenge.
When Conflict Starts
Often, couples in Puyallup, WA, have an amicable separation period. There may be some attempts at reconciliation, but then they agree it is time to move forward. If there are children involved, this moving forward will be more challenging as the couple will now need to form a healthy and positive co-parenting relationship.
What started out as an amicable separation now becomes a conflict situation. The couple struggles with what is fair and what is right for themselves as well as for the kids. This is where a divorce lawyer becomes essential. Ideally, involving the attorney before the conflict starts is always the best option, but often people assume they can handle these complex and emotional negotiations and decisions on their own.
Additional Reasons to Hire an Attorney
There are three important reasons, in addition to reducing conflict, to ensure that both parties are represented by a divorce lawyer. These include:
Child support – ensuring that child support is set that follows the guidelines and address the needs of the children. This can also include factors such as how much time the children spend with each parent and any special factors that need to be considered in the care of a child.
Alimony – in Puyallup, WA, alimony is often assumed in a divorce, but this is not always the case. In addition, one spouse may agree to pay alimony but only for a certain period of time or under specific conditions. The divorce lawyer will be able to explain the legal requirements of alimony to ensure a fair settlement.
Property division – as a community property state, the couple will be required to divide both assets and liabilities. This can be particularly challenging when the couple doesn’t agree.
Working with an experienced family law attorney can help to prevent these issues and limit the conflict during the divorce.
