Family Law Lawyer

Over the past several decades, divorce has become a fairly common process in the eyes of family law court. Many divorces are amicable and can be settled rather quickly. Other situations, however, require legal guidance by an experienced attorney and an ability to come to an agreement, no matter how difficult that step might be. The following information will explore some common issues with emotionally charged divorces.

Communication and compromise

The first step after deciding on a divorce is to try to agree on the terms without involving attorneys and court intervention. There is a lot of available information that is intended to help prepare people on the divorce process and necessary decisions that need to be made in order for the divorce to be settled in a legal manner. However, each relationship is unique and with that there is a unique set of hurdles when it comes to communicating and compromise during divorce. If it is just not possible to resolve the terms independently, a family law attorney will have the knowledge, tact and understanding necessary to facilitate compromise.

Consider the children

It is so easy to get caught up in the frustrations that come with spousal conflict. There is a lot of heated discussion and unresolved emotion that fuel the reasons for divorce. In addition, it can be infuriating to think that your spouse, someone you once considered a life partner, is now being so unreasonable. It is understandable, but these are adult issues and emotions. It is important for the well-being of your children to keep them out of the turmoil. Of course, you will likely want to be honest and explain the separation and divorce. However, this information can be shared in a calm manner that helps them feel safe and secure and that they are still loved. First and foremost, that is the right thing to do for the children. As far as your standing in the divorce, you want to be seen in a positive light as the court will consider the behavior of the adults in the situation, good and bad.

Necessary paperwork and deadlines

The first and possibly most important document in the divorce process is the petition. The petition is created by either party who is then considered the plaintiff or petitioner. The party who receives the document is considered the defendant or respondent. There is a deadline for the response (also referred to as the answer) to the petition, which may vary by state but is typically within 30 days. It should be noted that although the petitioner includes his or her wishes in the document and the respondent has an opportunity to respond and counter with the respondent’s wishes, both parties have equal say according to the courts- there is no benefit to filing first.

Family law attorney

If you are facing a difficult divorce and it cannot be immediately resolved, a family law lawyer Rockville, MD offers is your best option. In having an attorney who can guide you on the necessary paperwork and negotiation opportunities, you may be able to resolve your differences, finalize the divorce and move on with your life sooner rather than later.  

Thank you to our friends and contributors at The Law Office of Daniel J. Wright for their insight into family law and compromise during divorce.