Divorce Lawyers Information

Dogs of Divorce

2012-01-12T14:20:00.001-08:00

Divorce. Are you going through it? Do you have friends or family who are? Do you provide legal or emotional counseling for those going through it? If so, this adaptation is a must-read for anyone trying to understand the complex mess called divorce.

The Dogs of Divorce is a hilarious "who-done-it" and "why-done-it." This riveting journey delves deeply in search of the many psychological drivers of divorce, with the agony and euphoria - even serendipity - played out in a story to which many can relate.

Roughly based on the author's own experience, this book introduces us to a 40-something husband and father of three teens, who is suddenly served with divorce papers after 24 years of marriage.

Stunned at first, he comes to understand that the signs had been building for years, and he must reconstruct the clues... between countless trips to the courthouse and the bewildering maze of legal and emotional twists and turns.

For more information The Dogs of Divorce: The Journey Out of a Dark Marriage

Holding Redlich–Family Lawyers Melbourne

2012-01-11T03:30:00.001-08:00

Seeing a lawyer doesn’t mean you’ll end up in Family Court...

We help most of our clients reach an agreement about their family law issues without going to Family Court. There are many different ways of resolving family law disputes - our family lawyers can assist you to choose the best approach for your situation.

It’s our role as a trusted advisor that sets us apart…

We provide you with realistic advice, focused on your particular needs and life situation, so you won’t waste time, energy or money chasing something that is unachievable. So in the end, you’ll get the best result possible for you and your family.

We aim for the timely resolution of problem situations - minimising emotional and financial costs in the process.

Initial Appointment

At your first meeting our family lawyers will help you understand your legal position and give you options for moving forward. Even if you don’t wish to take any immediate action, you will leave your initial meeting with a better understanding of how family law applies to you and the different pathways you can take to resolve issues.

To make an appointment with one of our experienced family lawyers, call 03 9321 9771.

Click here for more information

Melbourne Family Lawyers

2012-01-11T03:03:00.001-08:00

Auditore Specialist Family Lawyers is an Australian Family Law Specialist Firm based in Melbourne which deals exclusively in Australian and International Family Law cases. Our Family Law Specialists are accredited by the Law Institute of Victoria. We have the knowledge and the expertise to help resolve any Family Law problem quickly.

We specialise in family law property settlement and resolving financial disputes. We settle our client’s disputes using Mediation and a Collaborative Lawyer approach if possible. If it is not possible, then we ensure that our client’s case is dealt with promptly through the Family Law Courts to achieve the best possible pragmatic outcome.

All of our Family Law Specialists are Accredited by the Law Institute of Victoria and such accreditation is recognised throughout all Australia. Only the best lawyers in their field of expertise become Law Institute of Victoria Accredited Specialists.

Click here for more information

Helping Your Children Cope with Divorce and Its Aftermath

2012-01-03T13:54:00.001-08:00

Amazon.com Review
Vicki Lansky's Divorce Book for Parents is a pragmatic yet warm and understanding guide for parents and children on just about every aspect of divorce. From tips on talking to the kids about it, to information on negotiating the realities of custody and child support, Lansky demystifies the divorce process, including the emotional aspects.
A parenting writer of many books (Feed Me, I'm Yours), Lansky is also a divorced, single mother. Her combination of information, humor, and compassion make the Divorce Book for Parents a valuable resource.
From Library Journal
Basing her approach on the belief that children are affected less by divorce itself than by the way a family is restructured and the way feelings are handled afterward, Lansky--herself a divorced mother and the author of Feed Me! I'm Yours (Meadowbrook, 1986. rev. ed.) and other books--presents a highly practical and optimistic guide for divorced and divorcing parents.
Among the many problem areas she covers, all from the perspective of doing what is best for the child, are breaking the news, the danger of continuing conflict, deciding when professional help is needed, organizing--and surviving--departure, dealing with the ex-spouse, and long-term adjustment. "You might think I'm painting a rather rosy picture in this book and that the real world doesn't work like this," she admits. "But it can. " Highly recommended for all public library collections.
- Marcia G. Fuchs, Guilford Free Lib., Ct.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Click here for more information

Book Review:

Have you read this book? Would you recommend it to others? Please visit our forums and leave a review of the book.

Custody Chaos, Personal Peace: Sharing Custody with an Ex Who is Driving You Crazy

2012-01-02T00:01:00.001-08:00

This empowering guide is an inspirational roadmap for the millions of men and women navigating a rocky relationship with a former spouse-while trying to maintain a healthy atmosphere for their child. Topics include:
* The 7 strategies for peace when an ex refuses to change
* Skills for taming former in-laws
* Ways to help children cope with a difficult parent
* Strategies and alternatives for focusing anger
* How to avoid hot-button issues
* How to nudge an ex to change for the better
* Ways to deal with children's questions and confusion
* The new partner's role in the old partner's shadow
This is the book for every frustrated parent coming out of a divorce who needs support in setting things right-the healthy, sensible, and sane way.

For more information - Custody Chaos, Personal Peace: Sharing Custody with an Ex Who is Driving You Crazy

Children's Issues, Child Custody - Slater & Gordon Lawyers (familylawformen.com)
Joint Custody with a Jerk - Raising a Child with an Uncooperative Ex (familylawformen.com)
Making shared parenting work for you & your children (tipsandsteps.com)
Helping Children Thrive Through Divorce (stepfamilyzone.com.au)

The Divorce Organizer and Planner

2011-10-23T20:37:00.001-07:00

This one-of-a-kind workbook streamlines the divorce process

This completely unique guide helps anyone —even someone enduring a not-so-easy split—create a complete, accessible record of absolutely everything needed to confidently tackle, organize, and prepare for the legal, emotional, and financial aspects of divorce. Family attorney Brette McWhorter Sember’s The Divorce Planner & Organizer includes:

Suggestions for selecting an attorney and getting the most legal help for the dollar
Tips on how to gather and organize information for easy access during legal proceedings
Advice on required documentation for homes, cars, investments, bank accounts, debts, insurance, and household expenses
A tracker to record alimony, child support payments, and children’s medical, educational, and athletic expenses
A personal property inventory and wish list, a budget form, and fill-in contact information lists

For more information…The Divorce Organizer & Planner

Free Divorce Classes is it the way to go

2011-09-24T16:38:00.000-07:00

FREE divorce classes teaching Melbourne couples how to make a quick and cheap exit from their marriages have raised the ire of family groups.

Participants will be able to leave the two-hour lessons, starting tomorrow night at Preston Library, with all the necessary paperwork filled out and ready to lodge with the Family Law Court.

The classes come as new court figures show 9032 Victorian couples divorced in the past financial year, up 4 per cent from 2008.

Family Council of Victoria secretary Bill Muehlenberg described the classes, run by Darebin Community Legal Centre, as "a production line for broken families".

"It doesn't make sense to make divorce any quicker or easier when the truth is studies have shown that 80 per cent of couples who undergo counselling when they are considering a split will still be together in five years' time," Mr Muehlenberg said.

Source: Herald Sun

Crazy Time: Surviving Divorce and Building a New Life

2011-09-23T17:35:00.001-07:00

A fully revised and updated edition of the essential guide for men and women moving through the turmoil of divorce.

"A common-sense, compassionate, human book about the crazy process that more than half of us go through. This should be required reading with all marriage licenses." -- Philadelphia Inquirer

Click here for more information

Similar Items

Helping Your Kids Cope with Divo...
by M. Gary Neuman
$13.60

Runaway Husbands: The Abandoned ...
by Vikki Stark
$11.53

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Divor...
by Jack Canfield
$11.43

What You Need To Know About Alimony And Child Support In A Divorce

2007-02-07T22:26:00.000-08:00

What You Need To Know About Alimony And Child Support In A Divorce by Moses Wright

Alimony is designed to provide the lower-income spouse with money for living expenses. Some states refer to alimony as maintenance or spousal support. Each word refers to the same concept; one spouse providing funds to the other as part of a divorce agreement. Each state has different rules to determine how much support is paid. Alimony can be awarded for an indefinite or definite period of time. Alimony usually terminates upon remarriage of the recipient spouse.

Alimony is handled differently in the court than child support. Child support is determined by a mathematical formula used by the state for that purpose. This is a subjective process. It is a matter of determining the difference between what the custodial parent earns in relation to the income of the non-custodial parent and the needs of the child. Alimony is awarded at the discretion of the judge or by an agreement between the two parties to the divorce.

Another difference between child support and alimony is that child support is not tax deductible. Alimony payments are tax deductible to the party making the payments. Alimony must be claimed as income by the recipient party. Child support does not need to be claimed as income for tax purposes.

There are several factors a judge considers when deciding whether or not to grant alimony. Generally, courts consider the standard of living of the parties that was established during the marriage, and the circumstances of the case and of the parties. The judge will consider whether the party who is getting the award lacks sufficient property and income to provide for his/her reasonable needs and whether the party paying the alimony has sufficient property and income to provide for the other's reasonable needs.

The court may also consider each spouse's earning potential. The age and health of the parties and the length of the marriage can be factors the court considers to determine whether or not alimony is appropriate and the amount awarded. In the past, the wife was almost always the recipient of spousal support, but gender is no longer a consideration. If you live in a fault-based state, some courts consider the fault of the parties when determining support.

Because in today's society both parties to a divorce are often employed and thus jointly supported their lifestyle, alimony has become somewhat of a rarity. Temporary spousal support is sometimes instituted at the time of separation. This may be used to give an unemployed or under-employed spouse time to become financially independent. Even if alimony is awarded, both spouses often have difficulty maintaining the lifestyle they had during the marriage.

About the Author

Moses Wright is a webmaster of Divorce Papers. More information on A Divorce With Children and Divorce And Money Issues can be found on his website. You are welcome to reprint this article if you keep the Content and live link intact.

Is A Divorce Lawyer Needed In Order To Get Divorced?

2007-02-07T22:25:00.001-08:00

Is A Divorce Lawyer Needed In Order To Get Divorced? by Moses Wright

In some cases, it is not mandatory that either party hire an attorney in order to get a divorce. A party to a divorce may represent themselves. However, someone doing their own divorce without legal counsel may be putting themselves at a serious disadvantage.

Most divorces are not straightforward unless there are no marital assets, children, debt, or other joint issues. If the divorce leads to litigation, then an attorney is definitely required. For a simple, uncontested divorce, a party to the divorce can prepare and file the divorce papers with the court. Don't attempt to represent yourself in court during an adversarial divorce.

The necessary divorce documents are available online and in books specifically tailored to the divorce laws of each state. Preparing and filing your own divorce documents can save you money, but what can seem like a savings can cost you in the end. Some online divorce document preparation services cost almost as much as an uncontested divorce through an attorney. The court will also charge fees to file the documents. It would be wise to meet with an attorney for a consultation to evaluate the cost of having them represent you in the divorce. Many attorneys offer a free consultation. If there is little or no savings in doing the uncontested divorce yourself, than why do it alone?

Even if you stand to save a few hundred dollars in doing the divorce yourself, you may end up losing more in the end. An attorney is a source of information for you. Attorneys can answer your questions and give you advice about the terms of the divorce. If there is any marital property or if there are children involved, attempting a do-it-yourself divorce can be a big mistake.

In certain circumstances, handling your own divorce without legal representation is definitely not a good idea. If the parties to the divorce are disputing child custody, then a lawyer is necessary. If one party believes that they or the children are not safe around the other party, then the party looking to protect the children needs the help of an attorney to do so. If one party to the divorce believes that their spouse is taking joint assets or hiding assets, they will need the help of a lawyer to prove it and receive what they deserve.

Given the complexity of the issues, it may be beneficial to employ the services of a professional who is knowledgeable with the law in your state and experienced in the field even if you don't expect any difficulty.

About the Author

Practical Tips For Choosing The Right Missouri Divorce Lawyer

2007-02-07T15:49:00.000-08:00

Practical Tips For Choosing The Right Missouri Divorce Lawyer by Karin Manning

Choosing your Missouri divorce lawyer could be one of the most important things you do in your divorce. Making a decision to finally divorce is a difficult and very emotional process. That's why it's critical that you find the right Missouri divorce attorney to help you handle this very difficult and painful time in your life.

Divorce decisions are usually finally so it's very important to pay close attention when choosing your Missouri divorce lawyer. If you want to change to a different Missouri divorce lawyer in the future after you have hired one, you may not be able to. Often you need to get permission of the judge hearing your matter before you can change your Missouri divorce lawyer or substitute Missouri divorce lawyers. Additionally, if your decision to change Missouri divorce lawyers is too close to the date of your hearing the Judge may be hesitant to make such a change.

Changing Missouri divorce lawyers is more expensive than you may initially think. When you first hire a Missouri divorce lawyer they will usually ask for a retainer (an advance in their legal fees). Sometimes, these retainers are refundable if you suddenly do decide to change Missouri divorce attorneys. However, you are still obligated to pay the fair amount to the first Missouri divorce lawyer for the work he has already done for you, even if you fire them in the future. Moreover, some Missouri divorce retainers are non refundable.

At the end of the day, it all depends on what divorce fee agreement or contract you may have signed prior to hiring the services of your Missouri divorce lawyer. If the Missouri divorce contract clearly states that the retainer is refundable, then you're lucky and in the clear. However, if the Missouri divorce attorney contract says that it is non refundable, then changing Missouri divorce attorneys is something you will want to consider very carefully before making any rash decisions.

In any case, make sure that there is a clear and concise written agreement between yourself and your Missouri divorce lawyer and that it contains the items you have mutually agreed upon. Do not rely upon a mere oral understanding or a verbal agreement as this won't hold up in court.

Qualities to Look for In A Missouri divorce lawyer

Choosing a Missouri divorce lawyer is similar to choosing a general practitioner. When you are preparing to give birth you take the care to find a good doctor to handle your prenatal care and delivery. For example, these are the kind of qualities that you would look for in a medical practitioner:

* They are a specialist in obstetrics * They haev extensive experience in obstetrics * They are Board-certified in obstetrics * You feel very comfortable with them and trust them implicitly with your prenatal care.

The same factors should be considered when choosing a Missouri divorce lawyer:

* They are a specialist in divorce law * They have experience in divorce law * They undertake ongoing legal education courses in divorce law * They have passed the bar in your state * You feel comfortable with them and trust them implicitly that they will do the right thing by you

Where to Look For A Missouri Divorce Attorney That's Right For You

Start by asking your close friends, family, or any acquaintance who has recently gone through a Missouri divorce or knows someone who does. Ask them what they liked about their Missouri divorce lawyer and if given the chance, would they hire them again. If they don't recommend them for your Missouri divorce then ask why they wouldn't recommend them to you. This will be a good guide of what you should look out for and avoid when choosing your Missouri divorce attorney.

You can also contact your local courthouse and local bar association. Bar associations usually have their own lawyer referral programs which are a good way for you to get good recommendations on a Missouri divorce attorney.

About the Author

Are you going through a Missouri divorce? Did you know statistically a man who doesn't have the right information is more likely to lose a great deal like your home, assets, children, and legal divorce fees. Find out what your ex and her divorce attorney don't want you to know by visiting http://www.divorcesecrets.getwhatyouwant1.com today!

How To Find The Right Divorce Lawyer In Michigan

2007-02-07T15:48:00.002-08:00

How To Find The Right Divorce Lawyer In Michigan by Karin I Manning

Making a decision to finally divorce is a difficult and very emotional process. That's why it's critical that you find the right Michigan divorce attorney to help you handle this very difficult and painful time in your life.

The Value of Referrals To Help You Find The Right Michigan Divorce Attorney

The first thing you need to understand is that finding a Michigan divorce attorney that is right for you and your divorce needs is a lot like finding a good auto mechanic or a plumber. It's important to ask people you know in Michigan who have either used a Michigan divorce lawyer or know people that have that can recommend a Michigan divorce lawyer to you. Getting the right Michigan divorce lawyer recommendation could save you tens of thousands of dollars in the long run.

So if you want to find a Michigan divorce attorney who suits your divorce needs perfectly, the best place for you to start would be your closest friends and advisers. If any of them has gone through a divorce they should be able to recommend a Michigan divorce attorney to use - or even to avoid.

In addition, you may wish to consult with social or business acquaintances to see if they've used a Michigan divorce lawyer themselves.

Your final avenue of research for the ideal Michigan divorce lawyer could be also want to check professional societies for a qualified Michigan divorce attorney. Leave the Yellow Pages as an absolute last resort as word of mouth is a much more reliable research tool.

Questions To Ask A Michigan Divorce Attorney

Once you have decided on a select few Michigan divorce attorneys that have been recommended to you, it's time for you to schedule your first consultation with them. This is usually free. If it's not, ask that it can be. If the Michigan divorce attorney charges you for this initial consultation then he's more than likely not worth it.

This initial consultation with the Michigan divorce attorney is important for you to determine whether you feel comfortable unloading all your divorce troubles with the Michigan divorce attorney and whether you can trust him or her with your information. Think of it as a test of some kind. They should not be charging you for this. Michigan divorce attorneys make enough money without having to get it at this initial stage.

Be sure to ask every Michigan divorce attorney a lot of questions. The more, the better. There are no stupid questions. One of the most important things to discuss with the Michigan divorce attorney at this stage is the fees involved for representing you in your Michigan divorce. You should know the hourly rate, how portions of the hours are billed, and the approximate total cost of the divorce, given the issues you have brought up during the interview with the Michigan divorce attorney.

Choose a Specialist Michigan Divorce Attorney

You would not want just a general physician to perform brain surgery on you. Of course, you are going to look for a brain surgeon who is competent and has a vast amount of experience in this field. The situation is quite similar when looking for Michigan divorce attorneys. You do not want a general practitioner to handle your divorce when there is a specialist who knows more about the subtle nuances involved in a Michigan divorce case such as yours.

Your Michigan divorce attorney should have experience handling divorce cases in the past. Make sure also that the Michigan divorce attorney has taken up continuing legal education, especially concerning new Michigan divorce statutes or provisions passed. The law is dynamic, never static. It changes over time and a Michigan divorce attorney must be able to keep up with these changes.

About the Author

Are you going through a Michigan divorce? Did you know statistically a man who doesn't have the right information is more likely to lose a great deal like your home, assets, children, and legal divorce fees. Find out what your ex and her divorce attorney don't want you to know by visiting http://www.divorcesecrets.getwhatyouwant1.com today!

There is a common statistic Information on Finding a Divorce Lawyer in Dallas, Texas

2007-02-07T15:48:00.001-08:00

There is a common statistic Information on Finding a Divorce Lawyer in Dallas, Texas by Casey Miller

There is a common statistic that states half of all marriages in the United States will end in divorce. If you find yourself preparing to divorce your spouse, or your spouse is preparing to divorce you, it is a wise idea to arm yourself with as much information you can get. In the world of divorce, as well as any other legal procedure that can profoundly affect your life, you need an experienced professional in your corner to help you navigate the challenges of the divorce process. You need someone who has received years of training in family law and who knows all the ins and outs of the Dallas legal system by your side. While many lawyers will take divorce cases, you should avoid those that specialize in other areas (for example, DWI attorneys should be utilized for a DWI case--a wrongful death attorney should be utilized in a wrongful death case--not for a divorce case). This is where retaining your Dallas divorce lawyer comes in.
Your Dallas divorce lawyer will be your greatest ally in the potentially challenging marital dissolution process. You may have a very simple divorce, where you and your spouse both agree to amicably divorce and have no custody or property issues to dispute. In such a case, the costs and time spent will be minimal compared to a case that has custody or property battles at the forefront. Whether your divorce is simple or complicated, you need a Dallas divorce lawyer to obtain it.
A brief summary of the basic divorce process in Texas:
1. The divorce process begins with the filing of the first petition, called the "Original Petition for Divorce." This document could be very short or very long, depending on your individual circumstances including children and property issues. If you want to review this petition before it is delivered to your spouse and filed, please let your Dallas divorce lawyer know as soon as possible.
2. The petition gets filed and your case is assigned to a court. Each county has one or more courts to handle family law. In Dallas there happen to be seven family law courts. Courts are chosen randomly. You or your attorney are not able to request a particular court.
3. Next comes the discovery phase. Discovery is where one spouse learns what applies to the divorce suit. This may include methods such as depositions, requests for documents and records and interrogations. Your Dallas divorce lawyer will tell you everything you need to know regarding the discovery process and what your role will be.
4. Tax issues: The matter of state and federal income taxes will be addressed. It is extremely probable that both you and your spouse will be jointly responsible for any income taxes owed on any return that was filed jointly. Your Dallas divorce lawyer can explain all the details of this if you have any questions.
5. Alimony and Child Support: Depending on your individual circumstances relating to finances and children, you may or may not be dealing with alimony and child support issues at this point. At this time the court will consider the needs of the requesting spouse and/or children, as well as the ability of the other spouse to pay, and how much.
6. Changing Your Name: At this point you can request a name change if you are a woman who wishes to resume use of her maiden surname. Your Dallas divorce lawyer can prepare all the paperwork for you and guide you through this process.

Keep in mind that unexpected financial troubles often follow divorce. Prepare yourself for the worst by contacting a bankruptcy attorney beforehand.

About the Author

Casey Miller publishes his copyright-free work on www.dallas-criminal-attorney.org

Divorce Lawyer Costs - 4 Costly Mistakes to Avoid

2007-02-07T15:47:00.000-08:00

Divorce Lawyer Costs - 4 Costly Mistakes to Avoid by Steve C

The overall cost of your divorce can be impacted by several behaviors you may be able to control. When a marriage dissolves there are several important topics that need to be addressed and sorted out such as child custody and visitation, division of property, and support. Recognizing the following 4 behaviors and how to manage them ahead of time may be able to help your divorce lawyer properly gather the information he/she needs to put your case together and can reduce your divorce costs at the same time.

(1) Having unclear objectives
(2) Being overly enmeshed in your case
(3) Using your lawyer as a therapist
(4) Expecting justice in the courts

Having unclear objectives
One of the biggest mistakes you can make at the outset of your divorce is to not know what it is you hope to accomplish. Before you begin filing or responding to divorce motions, you would be wise to discuss your goals, objectives, and what results you can likely expect with your divorce lawyer. Having such a discussion with your divorce lawyer can help reduce the chances of unnecessary litigation, help you understand what you can likely expect through your divorce, and what the costs may likely be.

Being overly enmeshed in your case
Divorce typically deals with topics that bring about high emotions and intensity, which may result in a spouse becoming overly indulged or enmeshed in his/her case. When this happens, it is not uncommon for a spouse to supply large amounts of irrelevant research material to his/her divorce lawyer, which can drive up the costs of attorney fees. Additionally, a spouse that is enmeshed in his/her case, may begin micromanaging their divorce lawyer's work, which can create more work for his/her divorce lawyer and be counter productive. Setting clear objectives and goals and knowing what to expect from your divorce lawyer in advance can help reduce the tendency to become overly enmeshed in your case.

Using your lawyer as a therapist
Due to the high emotions that typically go along with divorce, it is not uncommon for spouses to begin venting or discussing problems they had in their marriage or how they feel about the other spouse with their divorce lawyer. Many times, these types of discussions are strictly emotionally based, add no value to the client's case, and are discussion better suited for a therapist, not a divorce lawyer. Divorce lawyers are typically concerned with facts, not feelings. Additionally, the time a spouse spends in these types of emotional communications with his/her divorce lawyer can add up in costs very quickly. Before initiating communication with your divorce lawyer, decide if the communication is strictly to vent or to pass on worthwhile information on to him/her.

Expecting justice in the courts
Spouses many times believe that if they can just have their day in court, justice will prevail. Spouses who believe that the courts are going to give them justice are often misguided and end up extremely disappointed with the results. Better results and happier divorce endings are often accomplished through mediation and/or stipulated agreements. When a judge makes a decision, it is rarely a win-win decision for both spouses. To manage your expectations of justice in the family courts, you would be wise to consult your divorce lawyer to help you determine what results you can likely expect if your case goes to trial.

© 2006 Child Custody Coach

About the Author

Child Custody Coach provides child custody information and help. "How to Win Child Custody" is a custody strategy guide. Custody Match help you find a divorce lawyer, family law attorney, or child custody attorney.

Divorce Lawyer Communication - How to Enhance Your Communication with Your Attorney

2007-02-07T15:45:00.001-08:00

Divorce Lawyer Communication - How to Enhance Your Communication with Your Attorney by Steve C

There are several ways in which you can communicate with your divorce lawyer, but some methods may be more effective than others. When a marriage dissolves there are several important topics that need to be discussed and sorted out such as child custody and visitation, division of property, and support. Communicating effectively with your attorney about such issues will help your lawyer properly gather the information he/she needs to put your case together and can reduce your attorney fees at the same time.

In-Person
Meeting with your attorney in-person when there is an extensive amount of material to go through is often a wise choice. When you meet with an attorney face-to-face there is less chance for distraction and it is more likely you will have the attorney's undivided attention. Any material you or your attorney may have can be reviewed and any questions can be addressed. Each party will have an equal opportunity to discuss and cover any important details. Additionally, the amount of time spent in an in-person meeting is traceable and should be reflected accurately on your attorney bill.

E-mail
Assuming your attorney checks his/her e-mail regularly, email communications with your attorney can be very effective, especially if a response is not needed immediately or an attachment needs to be sent. Unlike faxes, there is usually no charge to receive an e-mail. However, there will be a cost for your attorney to review and respond to your e-mail. Therefore, it is extremely important to keep your e-mail concise and to the point. This is often a difficult adjustment for those who have a tendency to write wordy e-mails. Further, depending on how savvy your attorney is with technology, he/she may spend more time in an e-mail communication than if the message were communicated via phone or fax. Further, the amount of time an attorney actually spends in an e-mail communication is virtually untraceable, so you will want to closely monitor your bill to make sure the charges are reasonable.

Telephone
One of the most common forms of communication you may have with your attorney may be via telephone. Telephone communications can be very effective, especially when you or your attorney have a quick question. Such communication is quick and timely. Additionally, the time spent on the telephone is the most traceable form of communication. The time spent on the phone may be recorded on your phone bill and should be reflected accurately on your attorney bill. However, problems may arise when more than a couple questions need to be covered. Long telephone calls can be subject to distractions and retaining large amounts of information can become an issue.

Fax
Communications with your attorney via fax can be very useful. For example, when a lengthy document needs to be reviewed or if your signature is required on a document (and a faxed copy of your signature is acceptable), faxes can save you an unnecessary trip to your attorney's office or the wait time associated with mailings. Like the postage fee for a mailing, there may be a cost associated with the fax, such as the call charge or the time a person in your attorney's office had to stand in front of the fax to send or receive documents.

Mailing
Communications with your attorney via mail can be very effective when a reviewing of a particular document is not extremely urgent. Additionally, any serious issues or requests you may need to make upon your attorney may be best done in writing. Mailings are a common way attorney's keep their client informed or on copy of all filings and communications with opposing counsel. Mailings are easy to organize and typically easy to manage.

There are several ways in which you can communicate with your divorce lawyer and choosing the right method can significantly enhance your communication with him/her. When a marriage dissolves there are several important topics that need to be discussed and sorted out such as child custody and visitation, division of property, and support. Communicating effectively with your attorney about such issues will help your lawyer properly gather the information he/she needs to put your case together and can reduce your attorney fees at the same time.

© 2006 Child Custody Coach

About the Author

How To Find A Good Divorce Attorney

2007-01-21T23:39:00.001-08:00

How To Find A Good Divorce Attorney by Andrew Daigle

For most, a divorce is a very stressful process that leaves everyone involved with a feeling of emotional exhaustion. When dealing with divorce laws varying from one state to the next, the possibility of alimony, child custody and the filing of complicated divorce papers, it may be a good idea to meet with a divorce attorney for professional advice surrounding local divorce laws and any other factors that may affect your case. When searching for the right divorce lawyer, it's important to note that there is a considerable difference between a good divorce attorney and the right divorce attorney for you. There may be dozens of qualified divorce lawyers in your area, but finding the one that will work to achieve your needs will ultimately be the best divorce lawyer for you.

When searching for a divorce attorney, most people's first reaction is to grab the telephone book and start flipping through the yellow pages. While this is a good place to start, choosing a divorce lawyer requires much more thought than simply picking a name at random. Attorneys specialize in different areas, which is why it's important to make sure the one you choose is experienced in handling divorce cases. Once you have made a list of local divorce lawyers to contact, your next step is to schedule a consultation with at least three different attorneys. This is essential in your decision as it will help you to get a better idea as to your options and how a different divorce lawyer may handle your case. In addition, meeting with different divorce lawyers will help you to compare rates and ultimately choose the attorney that you feel the most comfortable with.

During your consultation, a good divorce attorney will be able to answer your questions about local divorce laws, child custody laws and will likely be able to offer valuable advice on divorce. In many cases, couples can resolve the division of assets and custody matters through divorce mediation. Others, who are unable to reach an amicable solution, must proceed to divorce court where a judge will hear the circumstances of the case and will issue a ruling as to the division of assets, alimony (when applicable) and child custody.

The complexity of a divorce case will greatly determine the attorney fees, which will be discussed during your initial consultation with a divorce lawyer. When discussing your case, it is essential that you inquire about these rates, how and when they are to be paid and who is responsible for paying them. As a general rule, the more work that is done and time spent on a case, the higher the attorney fees will be. If a divorce case is concluded outside of divorce court, the costs are likely to be less than if that same case were to proceed to trial.

Once an agreement is reached and you have chosen the right divorce attorney for your case, a retainer agreement will be signed by both you and the attorney. This contract is simply a formal written agreement that outlines the services to be offered and the cost of said services. A copy of this agreement will be kept on file at the office of your divorce lawyer and a copy will also be provided to you for safekeeping.

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional legal advice regarding divorce. If you are in need of divorce advice or are considering a marriage separation, consult with a professional divorce lawyer in your area for further information and/or divorce advice.

About the Author

Andrew Daigle is an author and creator of many informational websites including http://www.divorce-attorney-search.com , http://mesothelioma-attorney-search.com and many more.

Divorce Lawyer Characteristics - 5 Traits to Consider

2007-01-21T23:16:00.000-08:00

Divorce Lawyer Characteristics - 5 Traits to Consider by Steve C

The characteristics of a divorce lawyer are important to consider when seeking legal representation. Whether your divorce is highly contested or if you are close to settling all or most of the major issues pertaining to your divorce such as child custody and visitation, division of property, and support, the following characteristics of a prospective divorce lawyer should be considered.

(1) Proactive
(2) Willingness to negotiate
(3) Assertive
(4) Approachable
(5) Problem solver

Proactive
Proactive divorce lawyers often keep the opposing party on the defensive. Rather than reacting to the opposing counsels requests, a proactive attorney will have a strategy and often initiate action requiring the other party to respond or react. When done effectively, the opposing party may find themselves responding and reacting with little or no opportunity to go on the offensive.

Willingness to negotiate
Cases in which the parties are close to settling all or some of their divorce issues can benefit from divorce lawyers that are willing to help negotiate settlements out-of-court. Additionally, much time, money, and stress associated with contested divorce cases can be drastically reduced. However, in highly contested divorces, negotiating settlements may not be an option and a good trial lawyer may be more valuable.

Assertive
An assertive divorce lawyer is typically confident, but not arrogant, and knows when it is ok to be assertive and when it is not. Additionally, such an attorney will often demonstrate confidence in the courtroom through his/her experience and may remain unemotional throughout your divorce proceedings. The attorney's communication with the opposing counsel will typically be amicable, but when under attack, he/she will not be afraid to assert his/her client's position.

Approachable
Approachable attorneys are easy to talk to and easy to get in contact with. When you request to speak with them they will make themselves available and return your call in a timely manner. However, an approachable attorney is not an attorney that will engage in meaningless conversations that have no relevance to your case. Typically, an approachable attorney will demonstrate good listening skills in a conversation and will politely inform you if they believe you are getting off the subject to make the best use of his/her time.

Problem solver
An attorney that demonstrates good problem solving skills will have a strategy for your case. Such attorneys are often willing to negotiate settlements when it makes sense, but are fully prepared for trial if matters cannot be settled out-of-court.

If you plan to retain a divorce lawyer to help you with your divorce, taking into consideration the above 5 traits of a prospective attorney before you hire him/her might save you a surprising amount of time, money, and stress during your divorce proceedings.

© 2006 Child Custody Coach

About the Author

Is a Divorce Lawyer Right for You?

2007-01-21T23:15:00.000-08:00

Is a Divorce Lawyer Right for You? by Hege Crowton

Separation in a marriage. It's not an easy situation and, in fact, can be one of the most traumatic experiences in a person's life, short of the death of a loved one. While there are manifold reasons that people choose to divorce every day, there is more than one type of divorce. In this article we'll discuss the need for a divorce lawyer and how she can aid you in understanding your options during your trying time.

First, divorce is like war, in that it should only be the very last action employed, when all talks and all other actions have been taken to ameliorate the situation. This should definitely include seeing a marriage counselor for a substantial amount of time. Very often by having a third-party mediator, emotions can be stilled, allowing for logic and fresh insight to come out, and so calming the troubled waters that oft befall married people.

However, as counselors are not miracle workers, sometimes insufferable differences make it necessary to seek a divorce lawyer. There are numerous reasons for seeking the services of a divorce lawyer, the two most important being dispute over ownership of property and custody of children. We'll touch lightly upon these two issues in a moment.

First, it should be known that there are two different categories that your divorce lawyer will present you with, each representing a different type of split-up. As every divorce situation is different, the need for these two classifications was created. They are called "no-fault divorce" and "fault divorce."

In the former, no proof of wrong doing is necessary. The spouse seeking legal separation usually does not even need to give a reason, or if so, simply may state "incompatibility," "don't get along," or something along these lines. It should be noted however, that in some states a period of living apart must first be exercised. This can be a few months to a year, depending on the state. Your divorce lawyer will know the details of this.

In the second form of divorce, "fault divorce," one of the spouses must state a more extreme reason for the split, including physical or emotional abuse, inability of sexual performance not known at the time of marriage, infidelity, incarceration in a penitentiary, or desertion.

The reason for the two types of divorces is two-fold. First, the "no-fault" takes much more time, well over a year in some cases, whereas the "fault" divorce is more expedient. As well, as your divorce lawyer will detail for you, in a "fault" divorce, if someone is seeking custody of their children or more property in the settlement, such a divorce will bolster their legal argument.

There are numerous books claiming that you can file your own divorce, which is true. This person should have the answers to your questions. However, if you are desirous of a "fault"-type legal separation, find a divorce lawyer.

About the Author

When To Use A Divorce Lawyer And When To Avoid One

2007-01-21T23:14:00.001-08:00

When To Use A Divorce Lawyer And When To Avoid One by Jeffrey Anderson

The topic of divorce is never pleasant and usually painful, but if you find yourself at the end of a marriage, it may be your only logical options. Individuals choose to enter divorce proceedings for a variety of reasons, but usually the more civil these proceedings the better. A divorce lawyer can be incredibly useful for representing you regarding divisions of assets and property and in the event of custody proceedings.

Not everyone needs to solicit the aid of a divorce lawyer, so carefully consider whether you should consider a lawyer in your specific situation. Since each case is different, there is no blanket statement regarding who should use a divorce lawyer and who can forgo the presence of one. You do not necessarily need the help of a divorce lawyer to successfully enter and complete divorce proceedings, but in many cases, their presence and expertise can help immensely through this difficult process.

Depending on your specific situation, you may not need the assistance of a divorce lawyer. That does not mean you should put any less importance or thought into the proceedings than an individual who chooses to hire a lawyer. Many individuals forego hiring a divorce lawyer because they can come up with an agreeable situation between themselves and a former spouse.

Even though your marriage may be ending, remember both parties are adults and should act as such. Individuals who are able to remain mature about the situation and have realistic wants and needs are more capable of handing proceedings without needing a lawyer.

If you choose not to solicit the assistance of a lawyer, carefully consider all potential issues that may arise between you and your former spouse. The two of you should arrange a meeting to discuss all issues before the date of the divorce proceedings so all terms and conditions are clearly determined.

Also, you may need to meet with a neutral third party mediator so that everyone remains focused at the task at hand. Couples who are able to calmly and deliberately discuss any necessary issues regarding the divorce are more apt to have problems later down the road. Most couples are able to discuss the terms of their divorce without needing to involve lawyers.

If you are concerned about your safety or afraid of your former spouse, it will probably be in your best interest to hire a lawyer and let that individual deal with him or her directly. You will still need to make any necessary decisions, but will not have to directly speak to your former spouse.

If there is any problem of abuse--physical, sexual, or verbal--in the relationship, a lawyer should be hired immediately. Furthermore, if you fear for the safety of any children or dependants in your home life, a lawyer be hired for their best interest as well. Furthermore, if your spouse is acting cruel or dishonest towards you or anyone else in the household, hiring a lawyer will help take the focus off you in this situation.

Another reason to hire a lawyer is if your spouse does so first. It is severely discouraged to enter into divorce proceedings against a lawyer if you have no experience in the field of law yourself. Hiring a lawyer will protect your best interests and ensure your wants and needs are taken care of in a court of law. This is especially true if children are involved, as custody cases are often complicated and should be handled by a professional.

If you find yourself wanting to hire a lawyer but financially unable to do so, speak with the legal aid office of your county courthouse. These offices coordinate clients with lawyers who will work at reduced fees or for no cost at all (pro bono). If you know a lawyer through family or friend connections, seek their help and guidance. Many legal acquaintances will be able to provide you with legal information for minimal or no charge.

However, if the lawyer in question shares a relationship with both you and your former spouse, it is strongly recommended you avoid bringing this person into any potential dispute. Making the decision whether or not to hire a lawyer to assist with your divorce proceedings is a critical decision that should be made using a clear head and deliberate thought.

About the Author

Jeffrey Anderson writes about divorce lawyers and legal divorce help at http://www.divorcelegal.info - Click the link to visit now

What A Divorce Lawyer Is Going To Do For You

2007-01-21T23:13:00.000-08:00

What A Divorce Lawyer Is Going To Do For You by George Royal

Getting a divorce is not something anyone looks forward to and it is certainly not something that we plan for when we get married. Unfortunately divorce is a reality for many people in many different situations. If you are getting a divorce or even just considering it then you need to be sure to choose the right divorce lawyer.

You will find many a divorce lawyer in your area but be aware that not all of them are as good as others. You need to have the best divorce lawyer that you can afford when it comes to your divorce. If you don't you could end up paying much more than you though and I am not talking about the divorce lawyer fees. I am talking settlement or even alimony or palimony. Then there is custody to consider if you have children. So take care with your divorce lawyer choice.

When you are trying to get a divorce your divorce lawyer is going to petition the courts to get your marriage dissolved. This means coming to an agreement in terms of all property and money that you as a couple have had possession of. There are several grounds for divorce and your divorce lawyer will help you to choose the grounds that suit your particular situation the best.

You will have the choice of adultery, time apart, unreasonable behavior and sometimes even fraud or irreconcilable differences are the way to go. Bottom line is that you should never make any important decisions concerning your divorce without first talking things over with your divorce lawyer. Your divorce lawyer is the professional who has the experience that will help you through this trying time.

What will your divorce lawyer be doing all of the time they are working for you? Your divorce lawyer will spend most of his or her time working on the distribution of conjugal property. How your property is divided will depend on a couple of things. Some of these things will be how much there is to begin with and how much belonged to whom before the marriage, the length of the marriage and the place in which you live. Every country, even every state has its own rules concerning the distribution of property and only your divorce lawyer will be able to help you make all of the right decisions.

Your divorce lawyer is considered to be your legal representation. This means that this divorce lawyer is the person who will often speak for you in court and out of court. Your divorce lawyer needs to be present at every meeting that you have with your spouse's lawyer or your spouse. Never talk about the case without your divorce lawyer being present and on hand. You never know what you could say that could jeopardize your divorce case, it is far better to be safe than sorry.

About the Author

Lawyers HQ: everything you need to know about finding the right lawyer.

How to Choose the Right Divorce Lawyer

2007-01-21T23:12:00.000-08:00

How to Choose the Right Divorce Lawyer by Nashville

Are you unhappy with your relationship? Are you thinking about divorce? Well then, choosing the right lawyer can be one of the most important decisions you make when considering a divorce. According to the article "How to Select a Divorce Lawyer" by Scott Morgan which was posted at www.legalclips.com, selecting a divorce lawyer to handle your family law case is a very important decision.

There are a few important criteria to help in finding the right divorce lawyer including focus and experience, past client testimonials, accessibility, fees and comfortability. And here are a few tips on how to get the best divorce lawyer around for your case.

First, set an appointment and prepare your questions beforehand. Ask about everything that is related to your case. Through this, you'll be able to assess if you have come to the right person and realize if he can handle the case for you. Also, ask about whether you'll be copied in on all documents. I believe that it's very important for a lawyer to return phone calls within a day and to copy a client in on all correspondence including legal letters and documentations. It is your right to be kept fully updated on all the developments of your case. More so, never think twice to inquire whether you will be charged for phone calls and for the initial consultation. Always keep in mind that a lawyer cannot be able to truthfully determine a legal fee without some preliminary research and investigation. Of course, fees will vary based on the complexity of the case, the time commitment involved, the skill and experience of the lawyer, etc. The payment of the fees, whether partial or full, is being done at the beginning of the case in some cases. In other cases, the lawyer might offer a payment plan.

Indeed, resolving such complicated issue is being made more difficult because of the emotional factors involved and the fact that during the divorce, neither of the parents is really happy. With this, regular communication between you and your attorney is very important. However, bear in mind that your lawyer's job is to give you correct information to help you make difficult decisions, not to tell you what you want to hear. The divorce lawyer will only help you to at least lessen the burden that you experience by winning your divorce case.

After all, the stress that these battles bring to parents can be truly remarkable. Perhaps, no other phase of life such as this one presents so much psychological pain yet so much opportunity for growth for the persons involved.

About the Author

For additional legal information and inquiries about the article log on to http://www.attorneyservicesetc.com

How to Select a Divorce Lawyer

2007-01-21T16:50:00.000-08:00

How to Select a Divorce Lawyer by Scott Morgan

Selecting a divorce lawyer to handle your family law case is a very important decision. The following are a few important criteria to help in finding the right divorce lawyer.

Experience and Focus

Any divorce lawyer you consider should have substantial experience in handling divorce cases in your location. An experienced divorce lawyer will know the tendencies of the various judges in your jurisdiction and should be able to use this knowledge to your advantage. Additionally, that lawyer should practice primarily in the field of divorce law. Often people will hire a lawyer who practices primarily in some other area, thinking that any lawyer will do. However, divorce law is a very specialized field that requires particular skills and experience in order to have a likelihood of reaching a successful conclusion.

Past Client Testimonials

Perhaps the best way to decide which divorce lawyer to use for your divorce case is to find out what former clients have to say about that lawyer. While divorce is never an enjoyable process, some divorce lawyers have more success at satisfying their clients than others. If you do not know someone who has been a client of that particular divorce lawyer, you should consider asking the lawyer for a list of clients that you can contact who can describe their experience with the lawyer. While client confidentiality is important, any good experienced divorce lawyer should have at least a few former clients who are willing to vouch for him or her.

Accessible

When a client becomes dissatisfied with a divorce lawyer, one of the most common complaints is that they were unable to communicate with the lawyer. It is very important that your divorce lawyer be accessible and prompt in responding to your phone calls, emails, and requests for meetings. While you can ask the divorce lawyer about their office policy, this is another area where you can best evaluate the divorce lawyer by hearing what former clients have to say.

If a former client of the lawyer tells you that they found it very difficult to contact the attorney, or that the lawyer either did not return calls or respond to emails or would take several days to do so, you should definitely avoid that lawyer. Divorce is an unpleasant and frustrating process under the best of circumstances. If you are unable to reach your divorce attorney, or at least someone on his or her staff, the frustration level can increase exponentially.

Fees

When you make your initial appointment with the divorce attorney, you should inquire about a consultation fee. Some lawyers do brief initial consultations for free, although most experienced divorce lawyers will charge between $100.00 and $200.00 as a consultation fee, or will charge their normal hourly rate.

For example, I charge a flat $100.00 consultation fee with no additional hourly charges, regardless of the length of the meeting. Essentially, the consultation fee is to "weed out" those people who are not serious about the possibility of hiring me. Given that my normal hourly rate is $200.00/hour and the usual typical consultation takes about 90 minutes, the charge for my consultation is significantly discounted. Therefore, you shouldn't let a consultation fee scare you away from interviewing a particular lawyer.

During the consultation it is vitally important that you have a candid discussion with the prospective divorce lawyer about fees and what you can expect. Typically, an experienced divorce lawyer will require the payment of a substantial retainer up front, against which that lawyer's hourly rate and expenses will be charged. You should find out what that lawyer's hourly rate is, what the up front retainer will be, whether any portion of the retainer is refundable if it is not exhausted, and how often you can expect to receive invoices that detail their hourly charges and expenses. You also will want to know how detailed the invoices are. Once again, this is another area where you can get excellent information from those people who have been clients of that divorce lawyer.

Comfortable

While all the above issues are important, there is one final question you should ask yourself before hiring a divorce lawyer. Are you comfortable with that lawyer and are you confident in his or her abilities? If the answer is anything other than a resounding "yes," you should keep looking. Your case is too important to entrust to someone who does not inspire your confidence.

About the Author

Scott Morgan is a Houston attorney who practices exclusively in the field of divorce and family law. He has practiced family law in Texas since 1994. For more information see his website: www.houstondivorce.com.

Divorce Lawyers Information

Dogs of Divorce

Holding Redlich–Family Lawyers Melbourne

Seeing a lawyer doesn’t mean you’ll end up in Family Court...

It’s our role as a trusted advisor that sets us apart…

Initial Appointment

Melbourne Family Lawyers

Helping Your Children Cope with Divorce and Its Aftermath

Book Review:

Custody Chaos, Personal Peace: Sharing Custody with an Ex Who is Driving You Crazy

Related articles

The Divorce Organizer and Planner

Free Divorce Classes is it the way to go

Crazy Time: Surviving Divorce and Building a New Life

Similar Items

What You Need To Know About Alimony And Child Support In A Divorce

What You Need To Know About Alimony And Child Support In A Divorce by Moses Wright

About the Author

Is A Divorce Lawyer Needed In Order To Get Divorced?

Is A Divorce Lawyer Needed In Order To Get Divorced? by Moses Wright

About the Author

Practical Tips For Choosing The Right Missouri Divorce Lawyer

Practical Tips For Choosing The Right Missouri Divorce Lawyer by Karin Manning

About the Author

How To Find The Right Divorce Lawyer In Michigan

How To Find The Right Divorce Lawyer In Michigan by Karin I Manning

About the Author

There is a common statistic Information on Finding a Divorce Lawyer in Dallas, Texas

There is a common statistic Information on Finding a Divorce Lawyer in Dallas, Texas by Casey Miller

About the Author

Divorce Lawyer Costs - 4 Costly Mistakes to Avoid

Divorce Lawyer Costs - 4 Costly Mistakes to Avoid by Steve C

About the Author

Divorce Lawyer Communication - How to Enhance Your Communication with Your Attorney

Divorce Lawyer Communication - How to Enhance Your Communication with Your Attorney by Steve C

About the Author

How To Find A Good Divorce Attorney

How To Find A Good Divorce Attorney by Andrew Daigle

About the Author

Divorce Lawyer Characteristics - 5 Traits to Consider

Divorce Lawyer Characteristics - 5 Traits to Consider by Steve C

About the Author

Is a Divorce Lawyer Right for You?

Is a Divorce Lawyer Right for You? by Hege Crowton

About the Author

When To Use A Divorce Lawyer And When To Avoid One

When To Use A Divorce Lawyer And When To Avoid One by Jeffrey Anderson

About the Author

What A Divorce Lawyer Is Going To Do For You

What A Divorce Lawyer Is Going To Do For You by George Royal

About the Author

How to Choose the Right Divorce Lawyer

How to Choose the Right Divorce Lawyer by Nashville

About the Author

How to Select a Divorce Lawyer

How to Select a Divorce Lawyer by Scott Morgan

About the Author