The Most Commonly Asked Divorce Questions and Answers
Written by: Brent Hannity
Q: What are some questions should I ask a lawyer about handling my divorce?
A: Here are a few of the most important questions to ask a potential attorney before hiring them to take on your divorce case:
- Where did you attend law school?
- Do you know my soon-to-be ex husband/wife? Do you know their lawyer?
- How many divorce cases have you handled thus far, and how many went to trial?
- What type of cases have you handled, in terms of things such as custody disputes, or financial settlements?
- Do you have any large, time-consuming cases coming up, or will you be able to devote the majority of your energy to this case?
- Will you be dealing with my case exclusively, or will you also be having an associate assist? If so, when will I be able to meet them, and what is their relevant experience?
- What are your fees, the hourly billing rate, and how do you expect payment? And, do you charge a retainer, and if so, how much?
- What are your regular office hours, and what is the easiest way to get in contact with you?
Q: What is a divorce mediator, and should I hire one?
A: A divorce mediator is used to handle issues such as child custody and the separation of marital assets, and to explain the applicable divorce laws in your area. A mediator is an unbiased party, usually a lawyer or counselor, who helps to facilitate compromise between spouses without the need for litigation in a courtroom.
Q: How do I approach the subject of our impending divorce with the children?
A: Honestly is always the best policy to follow when trying to broach the subject of a coming divorce. Of course this doesn't mean getting into all of the intimate details, but rather simply explaining the situation gently to the children. If they are older, most children will be aware of the unhappiness in the marriage, particularly if the adults have made it a habit of arguing within earshot, but other children are completely taken aback by this type of announcement and will need plenty of patience and understanding to get through this delicate time.
It's crucial to convey that they have absolutely nothing to do with the end of the marriage, and also to explain that both parents will still love the children unconditionally even if they aren't in love with each other any more.
Q: What's the best way to get on with my life after divorce?
A: There are many ways to keep moving forward with life after divorce, but there is no one method or way of thinking that is a perfect fit for each and every person. Depending on circumstance, as well as the individual's role in the divorce, and whether or not it was mutual or unexpected, people's emotions can run the gamut from pain and anger, to depression and a feeling of hopelessness, to a great sense of relief.
Avoid situations or circumstances that may be painful for you, but without sheltering yourself from living your life or doing the things you want. Meet different people, make time for yourself to keep stress and anxiety levels in check, and learn to do something new and interesting.
One of the best things about life in general is that we are always capable of learning more and more, regardless of how old we are, or what we may have experienced.
For more information, please visit Questions about Divorce.
