I’m a divorce lawyer in California. My family knows this, my friends know it… So it’s no surprise that I regularly get asked the question: “Do I really need a divorce lawyer for my divorce?” Because I’m also an honest divorce attorney, I respond with the truth: “Technically, no.” Without fail, I get an astounded look from the question-asker. But it’s true, there is no California law that says you must hire a California divorce attorney to walk you through your divorce.
However, common sense and personal experience (I’ve handled hundreds of divorces) supports the hiring of an experienced divorce lawyer if you are going through a divorce. Just like you probably wouldn’t buy or sell a home without the assistance of a licensed real estate agent, knowledgeable divorce lawyers provide you with the same sense of security and comfort. Especially if your soon-to-be Ex has hired a divorce attorney. Studies show over and over again that going through a divorce or legal separation is one of the most stressful, emotional times in a person’s life. An experienced divorce attorney will walk you through the process and also shield you from some of the battles that undoubtedly arise when two people are dividing property, children, etc…
Additionally, with a knowledgeable divorce lawyer at your side, you will not have to worry about being blind-sided or taken advantage of by your almost ex-spouse. There’s probably nothing worse than finding out after your divorce is finalized that the person you were once married to took you to the cleaners or otherwise manipulated you to get less than you rightfully deserve.
California is a community property state, which means there are many confusing laws about who is lawfully entitled to what property (financial, real estate, pets, etc…). An experienced CA divorce lawyer understands these laws and will make sure that you are protected during your divorce.
So, while CA state law does not require you to hire an attorney for your divorce, I always encourage my friends and family to hire one. On too many occasions to count, I’ve witnessed seemingly ‘unfair’ divorces where the Ex with the attorney pulls one over on his or her Ex-spouse. Don’t let that be you.
If you are considering a divorce or legal separation, contact the affordable divorce lawyers at Foresight Legal Group today. We are always online and available to answer your important divorce-related questions.