Should I Still Get a Divorce Attorney if We Agree on Everything?

Should I Still Get a Divorce Attorney if We Agree on Everything?

If you are headed toward an amicable divorce, you can count yourself lucky. When both spouses mutually agree that it is best to end the marriage, they can enjoy a relatively smooth divorce. It is even better when both spouses are on the same page when it comes to child custody, alimony, property division, and child support. But does mutual agreement really mean that you do not even need a divorce lawyer? 

How an Amicable Divorce Works

Before we get into whether you actually need a lawyer, let’s go over how an amicable divorce actually works in Michigan. You should know that if you and your spouse agree on virtually everything, you can avoid a litigated divorce. A litigated divorce takes the form of a trial in court, and most spouses agree that it should be avoided if at all possible. Not only are litigated divorces time-consuming and expensive, but they are also stressful and potentially hard on your kids. In addition, litigated divorces go on public record, making it difficult to keep embarrassing details private. 

Spouses who agree on everything typically choose collaborative law or mediation. This process allows them to negotiate the terms of their divorce behind closed doors, outside of court. Often, spouses simply sit down at the kitchen table and talk about how they would like to handle custody, property division, alimony, child support, and so on. 

But a divorce attorney is still necessary. In order to actually turn your agreements into a legally-enforceable contract, you will need a lawyer who can draft a divorce agreement. This agreement will contain all the details of your divorce, and it must be properly drafted. If you try to create this document on your own, you will inevitably make mistakes that will invalidate the entire agreement. A lawyer can make sure your contract will be signed and approved by a judge when the time comes. 

A Lawyer Can Fight for Your Best Interests

Aside from helping you draft a divorce agreement, a divorce lawyer can also fight for your best interests. You might be unwittingly agreeing to things that are seriously problematic. For example, you might not be aware of the tax implications of certain arrangements. Your spouse might be pushing you toward decisions that only serve their best interests. When you enlist the help of a lawyer, they can fight in your corner and make sure you are getting the best deal possible. 

Where Can I Find a Divorce Attorney in Michigan?

If you have been searching for a qualified, experienced divorce attorney in Michigan, look no further than Iafrate & Salassa. Over the years, we have helped numerous divorcing spouses strive for the best possible results – including those who are pursuing amicable divorces with few disagreements. Book your consultation today, and we can help you get the most out of your amicable divorce while helping you avoid common mistakes. Get in touch today to begin the process.