What to Do Before You Hire an Attorney for Your California Divorce

Going through a divorce is tough enough without the added stress of worrying about legal fees. Before you even think about hiring an attorney, it’s important to prepare yourself and understand your options. Here’s a breakdown of what you should consider before you hire a divorce attorney in California.

Understanding the Costs of Divorce

One of the biggest considerations when contemplating a divorce is the cost. Attorneys can be incredibly expensive, charging several hundred dollars per hour. Many people find themselves running out of money before their case is even completed. This is a common pitfall, especially when individuals pay large retainers for legal services that may not even be necessary at the initial stages.

For example, it’s not uncommon for someone to pay a $5,000 retainer and only have the divorce filed and served, along with some preliminary paperwork completed. This can leave them feeling stuck and financially drained before they even reach court.

Utilizing Paralegal Services

Instead of rushing to hire an attorney, consider starting your divorce process with a paralegal service. A paralegal firm, like ours, can help with the majority of the paperwork involved in your divorce for a fraction of the cost of hiring an attorney. We can handle everything from filing your case to preparing financial disclosures, which are crucial for the divorce process.

Using a paralegal service can save you money and ensure that your paperwork is completed correctly. We can assist with:

• Filing your divorce papers
• Serving divorce papers
• Preparing disclosures
• Calculating child and spousal support using court-approved software

When to Consider Hiring an Attorney

Once you’ve made significant progress in your divorce process with a paralegal, there may come a time when you need to hire an attorney. This typically occurs when your case is headed to court or when complex legal advice is required. By that point, you’ll have a clearer understanding of your financial situation and the specifics of your case.

At that stage, your funds can be better allocated toward legal representation during critical moments, such as court appearances or negotiations.

What Documents You Need to Gather

Before you even think about hiring an attorney or a paralegal, it’s essential to gather all necessary documents related to your marriage. This will make the process smoother and faster. Here’s a checklist of what you should collect:

• Marriage certificate
• Financial statements (bank accounts, credit cards, etc.)
• Tax returns from the previous years
• Pay stubs and income statements
• Property deeds and titles
• Retirement account statements
• Insurance policies

Understanding Child Custody and Support

If children are involved, understanding child custody and support is crucial. You’ll need to determine how custody will be divided and what financial support will be necessary. This can be a complex area that often requires legal advice, but starting to gather information on your own can be beneficial.

We can assist you with calculating child support figures based on California guidelines, ensuring a fair and accurate determination. This will also help in negotiations later on.

Self-Representation: Is It Right for You?

While self-representation is an option, it’s not always advisable. The legal system can be complicated, and a misstep could have long-lasting consequences. If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about the process, seeking professional help is a wise choice.

If you decide to represent yourself, make sure to familiarize yourself with the necessary forms and procedures. This includes understanding how to file paperwork correctly and meeting all deadlines.

What to Expect from Your Attorney

If you do choose to hire an attorney, it’s important to know what to expect. Here are some key points to consider:

• Your attorney should provide a clear outline of their fees and how they charge for services.
• They should communicate with you regularly, keeping you informed about the status of your case.
• Look for an attorney who specializes in family law, as they will have the most relevant experience.

Conclusion

Before diving into the divorce process, take the time to prepare. Understand the costs, gather necessary documents, and consider utilizing a paralegal service to save money. When the time comes to hire an attorney, you’ll be in a better position to make informed decisions. Remember, the goal is to navigate this challenging time as smoothly and cost-effectively as possible.

If you’re at the beginning stages of your divorce or are already in the process, feel free to reach out for a free consultation. We can help guide you through the paperwork and ensure everything is handled efficiently, allowing you to focus on your next steps.

Contact us today at 661-281-0266 or visit our website for more information.