How Can a Family Law Expert Effectively Assist Through Divorce Proceedings?

Family law is one of the most challenging and emotionally demanding legal processes. The psychological and financial toll of divorce proceedings, for instance, can greatly affect the couple, as well as the children, and close family members who in some ways also experience the trauma of family separation. If you are about to undergo a divorce and are unsure about whether the assistance of a family law attorney is truly needed, we recommend that you meet with one and hear what they have to say before making a decision on the matter. 

The Emotional Strain of Navigating a Divorce Case 

While divorce is a legal proceeding and is therefore treated as a ‘case’ to be handled by the courts and the legal system, it is a very personal — and in many instances — distressful situation that can singlehandedly transform the dynamics of a family. Given that important emotional component often present in such cases, couples and families alike require a vetted and equally compassionate attorney who can help them navigate this painful and complex process with the efficacy and delicacy required. Per a 2020 article published on Lexology, “The role of the family lawyer is distinctly unique from others in the legal profession. Although clients come to lawyers for legal advice, they frequently turn to them for additional emotional support. Family lawyers are working with people at their most vulnerable and volatile, people who are understandably in crisis and who can, as a result, struggle to make their own decisions and need extra guidance.” 

The Financial Repercussions of Divorce 

As The Balance shares, there are a few things you will want to keep in mind about the financial aspect of the divorce process. Given that the choices you will be confronted with can severely impact your way of life, you should request the assistance of an experienced attorney and financial planner to counsel you throughout the procedure. As The Balance recommends, you will want to have some clarity on how you will “divide property in the divorce, divide debt in the divorce,” handle “tax issues in the divorce,” and deal with “retirement plan issues in the divorce” before engaging in any sort of discussions with the other party. 

Unfortunately, divorce is known to bring out the worst in people and even the most upright and decent individuals can be tested through this emotionally challenging time. “Spouses may underreport income, ask an employer to delay a large bonus or salary increase, among other dishonest behaviors. Most vulnerable are those whose spouse owns a closely-held business.” This is why educating yourself on the state of your joint finances is key and one of the steps you’ll want to take as you approach this proceeding. If you or someone you know is in need of a skilled and sensitive family law attorney in Jackson, Mississippi we recommend reaching out to Ballard Law at (769) 572-5111.