If you want to have an amicable divorce from your spouse, you may wonder whether you need to hire a lawyer. When you have children, however, the situation becomes more complicated.
These are the advantages of having a family law attorney if you will share custody of your children with your former spouse.
Protect your interests
Once you submit a divorce agreement to the family court for approval, it becomes legally binding. It can be difficult to make changes later, so you may benefit from the guidance of an attorney who can help you create an arrangement that will suit you and your children until they reach adulthood. He or she can also ensure that your agreement with your former spouse adheres to Texas divorce laws.
Handle sticky situations
A lawyer can help you reach an agreement in complex situations, such as shared custody across state lines. You should also have legal representation if you plan to seek sole custody. Texas courts stress the importance of maintaining a relationship with the child and both parents.
Navigate the court system
Even if you and your spouse agree on child custody, correctly completing the required legal paperwork without an attorney can be challenging and time-consuming. He or she will be familiar with your local court and have insight into its operation that may work to your advantage. Removing the legal aspects of the divorce from your long list of responsibilities can help ease some of the stress of this challenging time.
Above all, having an attorney on your side can help preserve your time and support your relationship with your children.