D-I-Why?: Why DIY Legal Options Are Dangerous When It Comes to Your Family

If you are facing a family law matter, it can be tempting to save money by handling it yourself. While there are plenty of resources available in the form of DIY kits, court-supplied paperwork, and how-to websites, hiring an attorney can truly be in your best interests for a number of reasons! Family law is highly specialized. The law in general—and family law in particular—can be confusing and complex for those who don’t work in the field. It can be difficult to understand your rights and responsibilities in certain family law situations without a lawyer willing to walk you through what you need to know. In the same way, you shouldn’t rely on cookie cutter solutions you may find online. For example, in a Washington divorce, you may be entitled to certain retirement benefits and other income that your spouse receives after the marriage is formally dissolved. If there are complicated issues that must be addressed, such as support for a special needs child, a family law attorney will know how to handle them in a way most beneficial for you. Your family is unique, and we understand more than anything that family law matters are deeply personal to you. Divorce, child custody and support, visitation and spousal maintenance are truly personal in the challenges that it brings with it. For that reason alone, they are difficult to deal with. Secondly, there is more to a family law action than filings and negotiations: they involve real and deep emotions and feelings that can leave you physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted. You may be inspired to make decisions out of anger, grief, or exasperation. While these emotions will soon pass, they can create legal outcomes that are not in your best interests. A family law attorney can look out for you while you process your feelings away from the negotiation table or courtroom. An attorney will protect your rights. Family law cases usually involve high stakes. You could not get the time or residential schedule you desire with your children. Assets that belonged to you before the marriage could be declared community property when they are not. You could be awarded less spousal support than you deserve after years as a stay-at-home parent. There are many ways things could go sideways, and that’s exactly why you want an experienced family law attorney on your side. They will advocate for your rights and use their understanding of Washington family law to achieve the optimal outcome for your personal situation. Expensive mistakes will be avoided. People who try to handle their own family law matter often make mistakes due to the stress of their situation and their inexperience with the law. If you forget to include a certain credit card debt when dividing marital liabilities or underestimate the value of an expensive asset, you can be left at a financial disadvantage or be forced to spend more money correcting the mistake. Hiring an attorney will ensure that your case is handled correctly the first time around. This is a time when you need to be good to yourself. You should not be subjected to the stress of preparing your own arguments, presenting your case in court, or accepting a settlement or arrangement that is not in your best interests. Having a Washington family law attorney will nearly always result in more favorable resolution of your case in a manner that is quicker, cost-effective, and lower-stress than DIY options. Here at Bliss Law Group, we want you to know that we will be by your side every step of the way as you address your family law situation and move on to a stronger future. Our legal team is determined to help people navigate the system and come out stronger than before. We’re here for you. Call 253-844-4412 today!
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