When you get married, you expect your marriage to last forever. According to World Population Review, it's estimated that by the age of 50, 90% of people in the western world get married. Unfortunately, nearly 50% of marriages end in divorce. Going through a divorce can be emotionally and legally complex. Working with an experienced family attorney makes the process smoother and helps protect your rights. Here are crucial lessons family attorneys can impart about divorce.

Know Your Options

Many people think litigation is the only path to divorce. In reality, family attorneys say alternative options like mediation or collaborative divorce can be faster, cheaper, and less contentious. Litigation is more adversarial, while mediation and collaboration aim for win-win agreements. An attorney can map out the pros and cons of each option.

Divide Assets Thoughtfully

Family attorneys see many disputes stem from dividing assets, like real estate, businesses, retirement accounts, and more. They can advise you on laws regarding equitable distribution of assets and tax implications. Take time to fully disclose and document assets upfront to split them fairly.

Prepare for Transitions

Beyond finances, a divorce means restructuring your entire life. Family attorneys help with continuity plans for health insurance, bills, childcare, living arrangements, pets, and other practical matters. They also assist with name changes and updating important documents like wills or medical powers of attorney.

Know Child Custody Basics

Custody battles often get ugly without attorneys guiding the process. They explain types of custody like joint, split, or sole and arrangements like visitation schedules. Laws favor co-parenting and the active involvement of both parents. Be reasonable, compromise, and focus on the best interests of the children.

Choose the Right Support Team

Assembling a strong support team makes the process smoother. A family attorney is a key player in handling legalities. Also, consider financial advisors, therapists, appraisers, accountants, or other professionals to protect your interests. Your attorney can help assemble the experts for you.

Divorce is never easy, but family attorneys can offer guidance and insight. Their protection, counsel, and expertise make all the difference in achieving fair, workable, and legally sound divorce agreements. With an attorney's help, you can move forward on steady footing. If you're going through a divorce, let us help you. Call us today at Lockwood & Zahrbock Kool Law Office PC to schedule a consultation.