June 8, 2021

4 Signs That You Should Think About Consulting a Divorce Lawyer

Here are some signs to watch out for that may indicate that your marriage could end in an eventual divorce.

Although many people look at their marriage as one of the greatest accomplishments of their lives, it is the unfortunate reality that approximately 40 to 50 percent of married couples in the United States eventually divorce. The causes for this are wide and varied, but many of the symptoms are rather common. Instead of believing blindly that your marriage will work and not being prepared for something bad to happen, you should always have it in the back of your mind that a lawyer can help you out if things go astray.

In this article, we're going to go through some of the signs that your marriage may be headed toward an eventual divorce or legal confrontation. This doesn't mean that you or your spouse are bad people, but it could mean that unless you find quality divorce lawyer services you could be out of money, property, or child custody rights until further notice. Instead of being blindsided by an avalanche of legal notices and judgments, but prepared instead.

You Were Never Formally Married

If you and your spouse have never been formally married, then chances are you have what is called a "common law marriage" in most states. While the legal standing and ramifications of this vary by location, the splitting of property and other assets can become tricky if you should split up. Many people mistakenly think that because they're not legally married, it's easy to break their union and cut out whenever they feel like it. Sometimes it is, other times you are at the mercy of time and various laws that work against you. This becomes infinitely more complicated if you happen to share a child together, or if you have assumed custody of your live-in spouse's child. In any case, you will want to seek out the services of a divorce lawyer should things be headed south.

Marriage Law is Confusing and Intimidating to You

Perhaps when you got married to your spouse, you signed a prenuptial agreement that you didn't understand or thought might contain some hidden information. Never think that entering a law office automatically means that you have a problem, it can simply mean that you're looking for clarification on an issue that is important to you but don't fully understand. You may have general questions that you'd like to ask a divorce lawyer about the various marriage laws in your state or area that they would be only too glad to answer for you. Instead of being in the dark about the legal particulars of your marriage and binding agreements, you can be enlightened as to what it really entails. It doesn't mean you're a bad spouse, unfaithful, or trying to game the system: quality education about what legal agreements you're a part of are always good to know.

You Have Young Children to Think of

If you're contemplating divorce, but currently have young children, you owe it to yourself to consult a divorce lawyer before you start proceedings or file anything. Many people are unaware of what could happen to their children if they were to initiate divorce in their area, and are blindsided by all the different requirements and statutes that must be followed in the divorce process for it to be complete. Because your children can't take agency for themselves or decide their own fate, it is wholly up to you to consider what might happen to them in case of divorce and plan accordingly instead of acting on a whim. Therefore it is important for you to consult a divorce lawyer before there is ever anything filed, said, or initiated concerning divorce.

It Never Hurts to Have a Helping Hand

When people hear the words "divorce lawyer," they automatically have negative associations in their mind. While this is unfortunate, it couldn't be further from the truth about what divorce lawyers actually do. Before papers are filed or court proceedings are initiated, divorce lawyers help to consul, plan, and help restore marriages before it is too late and there are penalties to pay. In this way, divorce lawyers are an immense help to both rocky marriages and new marriages alike. It never hurts to have a helping hand!

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Preparing for Mediation: What to Expect and How to Succeed

By Analytics Import • May 29, 2025

Mediation offers an alternative to traditional litigation, providing parties with a chance for resolution without the need for a courtroom battle. Understanding what to expect during mediation and preparing adequately is crucial for anyone seeking a successful outcome. This process involves a neutral third party who assists in negotiating a mutually agreeable solution between the parties involved. Whether you are working independently or through a divorce lawyer, getting ready for mediation requires a strategic approach and a clear understanding of your own goals and those of the opposing party. Understanding the Mediation Process with a Divorce Lawyer The mediation process often begins with each party providing an opening statement, outlining their position and goals. It is essential to prepare these statements ahead of time, focusing on facts and desired outcomes rather than emotions or confrontational language. A well-prepared statement can set the tone for a productive session and open the door for constructive dialogue. A divorce lawyer can assist in crafting a statement that is clear, persuasive, and aligned with your best interests. Remember that the goal of mediation is not to "win" but to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement that addresses the concerns of both parties. Exploring Possible Solutions During Mediation Throughout the mediation, the mediator plays a pivotal role in guiding discussions, identifying potential solutions, and helping manage emotions. According to the American Bar Association (ABA), a good mediator typically has a success rate of at least 75% in pretrial disputes. This impressive statistic underscores the importance of choosing a qualified mediator who can facilitate effective negotiations. Working with a divorce lawyer during this stage ensures your rights and priorities are properly represented, helping you navigate complex issues like parenting arrangements or property division with clarity. Why Flexibility Matters in Mediation Another key element to successful mediation is flexibility. Being open to alternative solutions and remaining adaptable to new ideas can lead to more efficient problem-solving. It's vital to enter mediation with a clear understanding of your bottom line, but also a willingness to make reasonable concessions. A skilled divorce lawyer can help you define those boundaries and adjust your approach as discussions unfold. Flexibility can often mean the difference between resolution and an impasse, paving a path toward a settlement that meets the needs of all parties involved. Preparing for Mediation with Expert Legal Guidance Preparing for mediation requires a combination of strategic planning, effective communication, and an open mind. By focusing on facts, seeking a skilled mediator, and remaining adaptable, you increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Mediation presents an opportunity to resolve disputes amicably, efficiently, and often with a high success rate, benefiting all parties by avoiding the stress and expense of litigation. Ready to approach mediation with confidence? Contact the Law Office of Arthur J. White III, P.C. for experienced legal guidance that helps you prepare, communicate effectively, and achieve the best possible resolution.