If you’re a Sturgeon Bay resident and are considering filing for a divorce, you’ll want to be sure to speak with a qualified divorce attorney in Sturgeon Bay, such as Vanden Heuvel & Dineen.
There are several things to keep in mind when deciding to end a marriage, and an experienced attorney can help guide you through the process. In this article, you will learn some factors you can expect from a Sturgeon Bay divorce attorney and some of the factors you’ll need to take into account while hiring one.
How Can Divorce Lawyers Help?
When a marriage ends in divorce, it gets emotionally charged and challenging. Untangling two lives can be complicated, and complicated legal issues may arise. That’s where divorce lawyers come in. Divorce lawyers are specially trained to help people through the legal process of divorce. They can provide advice on child custody and visitation, property division, alimony, and more.
These lawyers can also help negotiate a fair settlement between spouses. If an agreement cannot be reached, they can represent their client in court. The divorce lawyers become extremely crucial when either the father or the mother threatens to leave the household with the children. Once a divorce is in progress, neither you nor your spouse has the right to take your children away with you without any legal advice or judgment. Ultimately, these lawyers help their clients to protect their rights and interests during one of the most challenging times in their lives.
Types of Divorce Lawyer Services
There are three main types of divorce attorneys: collaborative, mediation, and litigation lawyers.
Collaborative Lawyers: Collaborative divorce lawyers are attorneys who help divorcing couples reach an agreement on the terms of their divorce outside of court. During this type of divorce, both spouses have their attorneys, and the attorneys work together with the couple to negotiate a settlement. Collaborative divorce aims to allow the couple to remain friendly and cooperative after the divorce with their children or other family members.
Mediation Lawyers: Mediation divorce lawyers help couples agree on dividing up their assets and liabilities during a divorce. This can be done through several methods, including negotiation, arbitration, and mediation. Mediation offers couples the opportunity to resolve their differences without going to court, and it can be less expensive and time-consuming than other methods. Mediation divorce lawyers are trained in how to facilitate these discussions and help couples reach an agreement that is fair to both parties.
Litigation Lawyers: A litigation divorce lawyer specializes in handling divorce cases that go to trial. In most cases, couples can agree on the terms of their divorce without going to court. However, there are some instances where the two parties cannot agree, and the case goes to trial. These lawyers are experts at handling these cases and will work tirelessly to ensure that you get the best possible outcome.
What to Anticipate During the First Meeting with a Divorce Attorney
During your first meeting with a divorce attorney, you will be asked to provide basic information about your marriage. This will include the date of your marriage, your separation date, and whether you have any minor children. You will also be asked to provide factual information about your assets and debts. The attorney will use this information to determine whether you are eligible for a divorce in Sturgeon Bay.
If you are eligible for a divorce, the attorney will explain the divorce process and answer any questions you have. The attorney will also provide you with information on filing for divorce in Sturgeon Bay.
The Cost of Hiring a Divorce Attorney
The average cost of hiring a divorce attorney is $250 per hour in Sturgeon Bay. However, the total cost will vary depending on the complexity of your case and the number of hours required.
However, if you have a complex divorce with disputed custody or property issues, you will likely need to hire an attorney. The costs of a complex divorce can quickly escalate, so it is essential to be prepared financially. In addition to the hourly rate, you will also be responsible for court fees and other expenses related to your case.
Facts to Remember When Hiring a Divorce Attorney
When hiring a divorce attorney, you should consider the following factors:
The Complexity of Your Case: If you have a simple divorce with no children or property to divide, you may be able to resolve your case without hiring an attorney. However, if you have a complex divorce with disputed custody or property issues, you will likely need to hire an attorney.
The Cost of the Attorney: The average cost of hiring a divorce attorney is $250 per hour in Sturgeon Bay. However, the total cost will vary depending on the complexity of your case and the number of hours required.
The Attorney’s Experience: Check the attorney’s website to see how long they have been practicing law and whether they have experience handling divorce cases.
The Attorney’s Reviews: You can read online reviews of the attorney to get an idea of their reputation.
Their Credentials: Ensure the attorney is licensed to practice law in Sturgeon Bay. This will make sure that they are knowledgeable about the local laws and procedures.
Questions to Ask Your Divorce Lawyer
When meeting with a Sturgeon Bay divorce attorney, you should ask the following questions:
– What is their experience handling divorce cases?
– What are the average costs of a divorce in Sturgeon Bay?
– How long will the case take to resolve?
– What are the chances of winning custody of children?
– What are the chances of winning the property settlement you want?
– How will the lawyer keep you updated on the status of the case?
– Do they have experience with collaborative divorce or mediation?
The decision to hire a divorce attorney is a personal one. Consider the factors listed above to decide whether hiring an attorney is correct. If you decide to hire a divorce lawyer in Sturgeon Bay, be sure to ask about their experience handling divorce cases and read online reviews before making your final decision.
