In short, the answer is no. While a DIY divorce will almost certainly save you money on the front end, it could very well end up costing you a lot more money later in the form of an incomplete settlement and the possibility of future legal disputes. As a result, it’s generally a good idea to consult with a divorce lawyer Williamson County, TX residents trust as soon as you know that your marriage is coming to an end. By connecting with the team at the Law Office of Jason Wright, PLLC, early in the divorce process, you’ll benefit from experienced, professional guidance at every step along the way. There is much to be said for assuming the burden of various tasks yourself instead of hiring a professional. But there is also much to be said about allowing a Williamson County, Texas divorce lawyer to handle the “heavy lifting” during your divorce process so that you can concentrate on successfully navigating this major life transition in every other way.
Your Marriage Is Likely Too Complex for DIY Legal Forms
In order to handle the divorce yourself, you most likely need to file “uncontested,” which means that you and your spouse agree about every single aspect of the divorce settlement. Rarely is this the case. To be sure, you could work out your differences through the mediation process, but that option would take you out of the DIY process (although it would be a much safer option).
Moreover, printable legal forms that you find online are not customizable, which means they may not hold up if legally challenged. This is never what you want in a situation involving an important legal matter like divorce. Entering litigation with your ex-spouse after getting divorced has the potential to be far more expensive than paying for the services of a Williamson County, TX divorce lawyer and doing things right the first time.
You Might Be Leaving Money on the Table
Texas is a community property state, meaning that nearly every asset acquired during the marriage is considered the joint property of both spouses (as is the appreciation in value of many assets acquired prior to marriage). You may not have thought about your right to a portion of your spouse’s retirement plan, small business, digital, or other non-obvious assets. But failing to consider these assets could mean a much smaller settlement that might jeopardize your financial security in the long run.
Working with an experienced Williamson County, TX divorce lawyer is the best way to ensure that every single asset has been properly cataloged, valued, and divided fairly. Saving money by not hiring a lawyer may not save you that much money overall (and may even cost you a great deal) if it means losing out on your share of assets.
Cooperation Is Great, But You Should Also Hire a Professional
If you and your spouse are parting on good terms and are able to agree on nearly all issues ahead of time, that is an ideal divorce scenario. It means that the process will likely be short, time-efficient, and very cost-effective. But you should go through the proper channels to ensure that you have worked out all issues, that the documents you draft are thorough and legally sound, and that you don’t leave money on the table.
Whether you hire a mediator (and work with your own separate attorneys) or hire a Williamson County, TX divorce lawyer to help you negotiate a settlement, the money you invest now will be worth it if it means a legally sound divorce with adequate assets for both sides. Call today. We look forward to speaking with you.