Frequently Asked
Domestic relations cases involve defining your legal rights and obligations about the most important aspects of your life: your family, your children, and your future financial security.
The decisions you make concerning these issues will have a lasting impact on your future. It is critical that you receive comprehensive legal advice so you can make the best decisions for your unique situation. Knowledge is power.
Through experience, a lawyer learns how to properly prepare and present a case to maximize outcomes for the client's benefit. You should also look for someone who is a good fit with you and shares your goals for the outcome of your matter.
Many cases are excellent candidates for mediation, provided the parties involved are honest with their disclosures during the process and are flexible with their positions. Even where parties choose mediation, each party should consult with a lawyer to obtain advice from someone reviewing the matter with the client's interests as a primary focus.
Attorney-assisted mediation is a process where the parties attend mediation with independent legal counsel. It is an option in cases where the parties want to resolve through mediation but one or both feel they need a lawyer to advocate for them during the process.
Limited Assistance Representation (LAR) is a practical option when an individual is comfortable handling part of a matter on their own but needs legal assistance for certain aspects of the case. LAR also allows a client to limit their financial obligation for legal fees by defining which tasks the attorney is hired to handle.
Every case is different. The timeline depends on the complexity of the issues involved, how cooperative both parties are, and whether your matter is resolved through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. Simple uncontested matters can be resolved in a few months. More complex cases involving custody disputes, property division, or trial can take considerably longer.
During your consultation, Attorney Fitzgerald can give you a realistic picture of what to expect based on your specific circumstances.
Have a question that isn't answered here? Let's talk.