If you decide that you want to represent yourself during your divorce, remember that you can have an attorney help you at least part of the time. While you might think you know all there is to know about divorce, there are many twists and turns that could lead to long nights and stressful days.
What can an attorney do if you plan to represent yourself?
An attorney could work as your consultant, helping you work out the strategy you want to use when you go to court. If your case is particularly difficult and you find you need more legal help later, that attorney will then have the information on your case and be able to step in.
Representing yourself can be difficult work when it comes to the paperwork involved. There are dozens of documents to collect and submit for a divorce. You can speak with the court clerk and review information at the public law library, but another option is to check over what you need to submit with an attorney.
Once you file your lawsuit, the next step before trial is discovery. This is when you may submit information about your divorce, assets and more. If you have to go to trial over things like asset division, alimony or other concerns, then you will present your information to the judge. In most straightforward cases, it will just be your and your attorney (or you alone) against your spouse and his or her attorney. It’s typically a good idea to have an attorney present to help with unexpected developments. Our website has more information on what an attorney can do to help.