Understanding When to Hire a Divorce Attorney in Oregon
As experienced Oregon family law attorneys, we often encounter the question:" Is it worth my money to hire an attorney?" The answer, surprisingly, is not always straightforward. While our role is to advocate for clients, there are scenarios where the cost of legal representation may not be justified.
Situations Where You Might Not Need an Attorney
There are specific circumstances under which engaging a lawyer may not be necessary:
- Extremely short marriages: If the marriage lasted only a brief period and involves little or no shared property.
- No children involved: Cases without children or parenting time issues can sometimes be resolved more simply.
- Separate finances: If both parties have maintained separate finances throughout the marriage.
- Young parties with similar earnings: Couples without children who have comparable earning capacities might find it easier to reach agreements independently.
When Consulting a Lawyer Is Advisable
Even if you believe your situation is straightforward, consulting with a divorce attorney can provide clarity on complex issues that may arise. Particularly in cases involving children, it's crucial to seek expert advice from a child custody lawyer to ensure all matters are appropriately addressed. The court's primary role in divorce proceedings is to equitably divide marital assets and resolve parenting disputes. In cases devoid of these complexities—such as those without children or significant assets—the need for judicial intervention diminishes. However, even simple divorces can present pitfalls if forms are incorrectly completed. For instance:
- Failing to account for real property or retirement accounts.
- Overlooking name changes post-divorce.
In such instances, utilizing Oregon’s family law forms can be effective but consulting with a skilled attorney ensures understanding and accuracy during this process.
Our Approach at Pacific Family Law Firm
At Pacific Family Law Firm , we offer services ranging from initial consultations to full litigation support. Some clients benefit from" coaching" arrangements where they handle their own divorce while consulting us as needed. This flexible approach allows individuals to manage costs while ensuring they receive professional guidance tailored to their needs. For those contemplating divorce in Oregon, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our seasoned attorneys. By doing so, you gain insight into potential complexities and safeguard against future complications arising from improperly executed agreements. Contact us today at Pacific Family Law Firm to schedule your consultation and explore how we can assist you through this challenging time.
