Some people are under the impression that divorces are open and close cases and that they do not need the assistance of a Divorce Lawyer. Tampa residents should only consider going through a divorce alone in certain circumstances such as if your marriage was very short or if you have no children involved. Yet most divorce cases do not fall into these categories making it more likely that a division of assets is needed as well as discussing spousal support, alimony, and child support. There are a lot of legal stipulations that can bog someone down who is trying to represent themselves in a divorce.
Self-Representation May Lead to Misinterpreting the Law
An understanding of matrimonial law and family court is not common knowledge for most people, making it exceptionally hard for the average person to represent themselves. Understanding the law is only half the problem, as representing yourself you obligated to provide the appropriate documents and materials that normally would be handled by a divorce lawyer. Tampa individuals representing themselves are not given any special permissions or exemptions with legal matters and court proceedings, making it possible that someone representing themselves can jeopardize their own case. It might also be pertinent to take into consideration that your spouse is probably not going to represent themselves but hire someone who will, considerably hurting your chances of a smooth trial.
Are you Prepared for All the Paperwork?
Most people representing themselves however are not discouraged by legal matters and court proceedings but rather it is all the paperwork they did not know was involved with a divorce. If the actual amount of paperwork does not drive individuals crazy, it is all the different forms and papers that can be challenging, even for an experienced divorce lawyer. Tampa residents may be comfortable enough to deal with paperwork, they may find out that they physically do not have the time to be able to fill out papers while going to work and doing daily tasks. Representing yourself is a lot more work than people imagine it to be.
*Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Butash Law Group*
