Getting A Divorce? 3 Things To Keep In Mind
Divorce is something that you may find yourself considering at some point in your life. While most go into marriage with the intention of making it work, sometimes separation is the best option. If you are considering a divorce, you are not alone. Between 40 and 50 percent of all marriages in the US end in divorce. Even though divorce is common, it can still be a difficult process for you and your partner to navigate. Here are three things to keep in mind if you are looking into a divorce.
Divorce Laws Vary
The first thing that you should be aware of is that divorce laws can vary significantly from state to state. Each state has different laws and requirements regarding things such as division of property, child custody, and spousal support. Many states also have waiting periods that must be observed before a divorce is finalized. Residency requirements can also vary depending on what state you are filing for divorce in. Determining which state to file in and ensuring that you are going about the process in the right way can be a challenge.
An Attorney Can Help
While it is possible to file the right paperwork and go through the divorce process yourself, hiring a divorce attorney will help make the process quicker and easier. A divorce attorney can advise you on the best way to go through to the process and tackle any legal issues that may occur along the way. A divorce attorney will also look out for your interests and ensure that you are getting the fairest settlement available. Costs can vary depending on the complexity of your divorce. Some attorneys charge an hourly fee while others charge a retainer. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 and $250 per hour for a divorce attorney.
The Process Takes Time
Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to getting a divorce is that the process takes time. Non-contested divorces typically take less time than contested divorces. In general, the more you and your soon to be former partner agree on things, the faster the process will move along. The average divorce takes around 10.7 months to be completed. How long it takes for your divorce to be completed will also depend on state divorce laws.
If you are thinking about a divorce, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, divorce laws can vary significantly from state to state. A divorce attorney will help ensure that the process goes through as smoothly as possible. Even with an attorney, divorce does take time. It takes on average 10.7 months for a divorce to be finalized. If you have questions about your situation, contact a divorce attorney today.