How to Get Legal Help for Women Going Through Divorce
- 1). Seek the help of an attorney who specializes in family and matrimonial law. You need someone who can advise you of your legal rights and help you get a favorable settlement. According to the American Bar Association, family law attorneys are experienced in handling divorce cases, and therefore may be best qualified to inform you of your options. A knowledgeable divorce lawyer will be able to offer you advice on how to proceed, in addition to the fairness of the terms of a divorce agreement before you sign.
- 2). Ask your attorney if he offers partial representation at a lower fee. This way you get the services for which you can afford to pay. An attorney can prepare the paperwork, represent you at a hearing or schedule a consultation with you to give you advice. If you and your spouse are in agreement about the terms of the divorce, you also have the option of using a paralegal to prepare the divorce documents for you.
- 3). Schedule mediation is another type of legal assistance that can work to your advantage. Mediation allows you to retain some control over the outcome of your divorce. Katherine Stoner, an attorney and mediator, points out that women can sometimes do better in mediation than they would in court. Through mediation, separating spouses are often able to negotiate a suitable agreement.
- 4). Apply for legal aid. The Modern Woman's Divorce Guide points out that there are resources available to women who don't have money, but need legal help with divorce. You may qualify for free legal assistance if you meet certain criteria. Although requirements vary depending on where you live, there are general guidelines used to determine eligibility. If you feel your spouse is abusing your children, or if you are a victim if domestic violence, disabled, older than age 60, a member of the military or your income is low, you may qualify for a free legal aid program offered in your community.
- 5). Inquire about family law attorneys in your area who are willing to handle divorce cases without charging a fee. This may be another alternative available to you if you are not eligible for legal aid services but can't afford to pay for an attorney on your own. Contact the court administrator at your county courthouse for a referral to a pro bono attorney in your area. Legal aid services also may be able to direct you to a local attorney willing to help.
- 6). Prepare the divorce documents yourself to save money. If you do not qualify for legal aid or can't find a pro bono divorce attorney, you may decide to go this route, especially if your spouse is not contesting the divorce. You will need the correct forms and must carefully follow the instructions. Go online to find out what divorce documents you must file for your state and county, as states use different forms. You can also get information about filing fees.
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