By GNGF on October 26th, 2022 in
Should Spouses Share a Divorce Attorney?
Many people would like their divorce to be as quick, painless, and amicable as possible. To most, it would only seem logical to hire a single attorney to divide the assets and then call it a day. However, the divorce process follows a different path. A single attorney may not represent both the husband and the wife in court proceedings for many reasons.
Some people’s friends might say, “Well, my ex and I only had one attorney and it worked out perfectly!”. Those couples, contrary to how it may seem, did not technically “share” a lawyer. The lawyer represented one of the partners while the other appeared “pro se”, or without legal representation. This situation usually occurs when the couple is clear on all of the terms of the divorce, including child custody, support, and maintenance. However, if you and your spouse are in dispute over certain terms, it is wise to obtain your own, separate legal representation. Spouses who share a divorce attorney will create unique issues that the attorney will have to finely work around.
Will Having 2 Lawyers Slow Things Down?
Proceeding with your own, separate attorneys allows each party to divide the marital assets and come to supplementary terms in the most efficient manner possible. Spouses who share a divorce attorney will bog down one person with twice the work. With two experienced attorneys working by your side, your dissolution will move more smoothly and (most likely) carry out in a more timely fashion. Attorneys are more familiar with the process, can file quicker, and can typically arrange for Court dates much quicker due to familiarity with the Judges.
Contact a St. Louis Divorce Attorney at Bardol Law Firm for more information on the ethical and legal ramifications of not obtaining representation. We are looking forward to guiding you in this tumultuous time of uncertainty.
