By Chesley Payne
While not a pleasant topic, divorce is a fact of life these days.
Divorce is an area of law that can encompass all other areas of the law. Real estate, debt issues, business interests and even bankruptcy can be involved when a couple decides to go separate ways.
The advice of an attorney is a virtual necessity. Only an attorney has the requisite knowledge to help guide a divorcing spouse through the mine field of difficult decisions. If there are children involved in the divorce, special attention is given by the court system to ensuring that the child will be placed in a safe, nurturing environment. In the event that you are a non-custodial parent, child support calculations follow a formula with many intricate provisions that demand the attention of an attorney with experience in determining the amount deemed best for the welfare of the child.
Having an attorney to represent you in this situation can often avoid pitfalls that could lead to conflicts years after the divorce agreement is finalized. Some examples are: Who will pay for the child’s college education? What documents need to be executed to avoid conflicts regarding property ownership in the event a spouse chooses to sell a marital asset at a later time? Who, if anyone, will stay in the marital residence? Who will pay for the child’s health care?
These questions, and many others, require serious thought and consideration to ensure a smooth process. In the event you are faced with the end of a marriage, seek legal advice. Often the benefits will follow you for years to come.
