If you are having a hard time dealing with your divorce, you are not alone. It is okay to feel regret when your marriage has failed, often after trying everything else. If you are in Alabama, you don’t have to blame your spouse for marital misconduct to get a divorce. The state allows for no-fault divorce, and if your spouse wants the same, you can be done with the process in a month. The waiting period here is relatively short – 90 days. Here comes the big question – If you and your spouse agree to the aspects related to the separation, should you hire an uncontested divorce lawyer in Alabama? The short answer is yes. Here’s more on what you need to know.
- There is considerable work involved. One of the key reasons to hire an attorney is to simplify the divorce process. Remember that an uncontested divorce also requires the separating spouses to sign agreements that would sort key marital matters. Hiring a lawyer is your best bet if you don’t want to deal with the paperwork or legal jargon.
- Protect your rights and interests. Alabama allows for equitable distribution of assets and debts in a divorce. While this doesn’t always mean 50-50, you still have your rights. Consider hiring an attorney so that you don’t sign an agreement that’s unfair or unknown to you. Your lawyer’s job is to protect your interests and advise you on your rights.
- Get genuine advice. Just because you can claim something in a divorce doesn’t always mean you should. For instance, if your job is not stable or you expect to move around because of your career, seeking physical custody of your minor child may not be in the best interests of the child. When you hire an attorney, they will advise on all key aspects of the divorce. Their suggestions would be impartial and in sync with the laws.
The cost of hiring a lawyer
If yours is an uncontested divorce, you don’t have to lose all your money to get legal help. Lawyers in Alabama often charge a flat fee for uncontested divorces, and you only pay them for the basic work. A lot also depends on specific divorce matters, but in general, hiring a lawyer doesn’t have to be complex or expensive.
You should consult an attorney soon after deciding on the divorce and before you take any significant decision.