DIY Divorce - A Bad Idea
Media reports recently have targeted a new trend in some states – people representing themselves in their divorce cases. The statistics on this “trend” is somewhat spotty, but news stories are popping up all over the country about the numbers of people who believe it is worthwhile and cost effective to be their own advocate. We beg to differ in the strongest possible terms.
The adage “anyone who represents himself in court has a fool for a client” is true. Matrimonial and family law is an ever-changing landscape that even lawyers need to brush up on every year. In fact, continuing legal education, known in the business as “CLE,” is mandatory in order for lawyers to maintain their licenses to practice law.
The lure for most who decide to go the DIY route is monetary, and, in these times, cutting costs is something everyone is trying to do (from buying less expensive groceries to taking fewer trips in the family car). Times are increasingly difficult and the model on how to manage one’s life needs updating, no doubt.
But to transfer that logic to a divorce action is, in our opinion, a very bad idea. There are ways to cut costs in a divorce. Agree on as many elements of property division and support with your spouse, without emotion getting in the way. Accept the premise that compromise will likely shorten the process and the pain, and allow both of you to move on with the rest of your lives. Consider mediation or collaborative law, instead of litigation, as dispute resolution options.
You don’t want to be one of those poor souls who end up losing custody of their kids because they were ignorant of the law. That is not a lesson anyone needs to learn.
Find a lawyer who is easy to communicate with, and who is willing to work with you to come up with a fee schedule that works for you. That is the best way to ensure you get the most bang for your buck and the fairest deal with your ex-spouse.
