Getting Ready to File for Divorce
Although in some marriages, divorce may appear to come completely out of the blue, a family attorney Austin, TX clients trust knows that the reality for many marriages is that the specter of divorce has been looming for months, if not years, before one or both spouses finally make the decision to call it quits.
The legal team from The Law Offices of Ryan S. Dougay have been successfully advocating for clients in family law matters for years and understand how overwhelming and stressful ending your marriage can be. When you are heading into the divorce arena, you want an Austin family attorney who is not only knowledgeable and experienced in Texas law, but also compassionate regarding what you and your family are going through. You can be assured that each family attorney Austin, TX families recommend from our firm will be both professional and compassionate, as well as provide you with top-notch legal representation.
What are some tips for finding the best Texas family lawyer?
Choosing the right family attorney in Austin, TX during a divorce, child custody battle, or other family matter is a critical decision that can have a significant impact in your case, and its outcome. Unfortunately, in times that require a family lawyer, you may be stressed and faced with difficult emotions that leave you feeling vulnerable and confused.
As urgent as you may want to find a good family lawyer, it is important that you take time to explore your options and find one that meets your needs. This is absolutely critical. To aid in your search for a Austin, TX family attorney that is right for you, our firm suggests following the following tips. If you’re still unsure about how to proceed, you can always give our office a call for a fast and free confidential consultation.
Does the firm specialize in family law, and are they passionate about it?
As basic as this seems, it is advisable to work with a family lawyer who specializes in the area of family law. Just because a firm lists this legal area on their site does not necessarily mean their focus is on family law. Rather they might handle a broad range of legal matters. Sometimes this means that they won’t have the experience you are looking for. When you review a family lawyer in Texas, look for indications which suggest he or she knows the ins and outs of state and federal laws. You might look for reviews, publications, or on other sites to find out what others are saying.
By working with a family attorney serving Austin, TX rather than a general lawyer, you can feel confident in knowing they have honed their craft, and often have a better chance at achieving favorable outcomes.
At The Law Office of Ryan S. Dougay, our primary focus is family and matrimonial law. We are passionate about helping families overcome obstacles in their life and will do our best to ensure the rights and needs of your loved ones are protected.
What is the cost of the lawyer?
What you pay for a family attorney for Austin, TX can be a variable in the outcome of the case. In general, the cost of a lawyer will depend on their experience and whether the firm specifically handles family law or other areas of legal practice. If you choose a firm that pushes as many clients as possible through the door, the hourly cost may be lower; however, this could impact the amount of individual attention your case receives.
Family lawyers tend to be pricier than volume based or general firms, but they may be more efficient. Bare in mind that the lawyer you are working with in the firm can also reflect the hourly rate. For example, a partner (a lawyer with a lot of experience) will likely be more costly than an associate.
What is the lawyer, and firm’s, experience?
The number of years that a lawyer has been practicing family law is critical, especially when you’re looking for the right lawyer. Experienced lawyers have seen more, have failed more, and have overcome more. They are wise to the ways of the court and the tactics used by other lawyers. If you really need to win your case, you should choose a lawyer with experience.
How is the supporting team?
When you’re looking into the firm, take a look at the structure. Is the firm comprised of just one lawyer, or is there a support team of other lawyers, paralegals, and staff. More is not always better, or necessary, but it can help.
Make a Decision that is Best For You
On a final note, regardless of what your friends or family might be saying, you should choose a family lawyer based on what feels right to you. To talk with a family attorney serving Austin, TX now, call The Law Office of Ryan S. Dougay.
Preparing for Divorce
One of the benefits of having months before either spouse files for divorce is it gives you the opportunity to prepare what you will need. Even if you are only contemplating a divorce, you should still prepare. One thing to keep in mind is that if you are contemplating ending your marriage, there is also a good chance that your spouse may be too.
Having all documents and information ahead of time can help ensure that your family attorney in Austin, TX is able to get you the best possible divorce settlement available given the circumstances of your marriage. This information includes:
Dealing With a Difficult Spouse During a Divorce
A divorce is a very stressful ordeal. Both spouses feel a wide range of emotions and make take out their anger and sadness on the other. If your spouse is behaving poorly and making the divorce even more difficult, it can stress you out even more. However, if you learn how to properly manage the situation, potentially with the help of a family attorney Austin, TX trusts, it can make things a little easier.
Here are some tips for dealing with a difficult spouse during a divorce:
Think Before You Respond
If your spouse says something hurtful or behaves in another inappropriate manner, it’s natural to want to lash out at him or her. However, this isn’t the solution. If you react to your spouse’s poor behavior the same way, you won’t be any better than he or she is. That’s why you should take a deep breath and take some time before responding to your spouse. For example, if your spouse left you an angry voicemail, you should wait at least 24 hours before calling him or her back. This will give you some time to blow off steam and respond in a more mature manner. If you need a mediator, an Austin, TX family attorney can assist you.
Don’t Take It Too Personally
It’s easier said than done, but you should try not to take your spouse’s words and actions too personally. He or she is also likely going through a stressful time and may be taking out emotions on you. Try to deflect yourself from the negativity and realize that your spouse is hurting too.
Pick Your Battles
There are a number of issues that will be brought up during a divorce, such as alimony, division of assets and custody schedules. It’s likely that you and your spouse won’t see eye to eye on everything, especially if he or she is being stubborn. That’s why you have to learn to pick your battles. Don’t argue about every little issue that gets brought up. For example, if your spouse says he or she will be a little late picking up your kids next weekend because of doctor’s appointment, don’t make a big deal about it.
Have A Family Attorney in Austin, TX Handle the Communication
If your spouse continues to yell at you and treat you badly no matter what you do, you may want to consider having your Austin, TX family attorney handle all the communication from now on. Your lawyer can speak to your spouse on your behalf so that you no longer have to. It will makes things a little less stressful on you and help you concentrate on yourself.
Consulting With a Austin, TX Family Attorney
If you plan on getting divorced soon, you should schedule a consultation with a reputable family attorney Austin Texas trusts as soon as possible. A divorce isn’t something you should go through on your own. There is a lot at stake and you want someone knowledgeable and experienced on your side. A divorce lawyer can review your case for free and advise you the best way to proceed.
Financial Documents
Your family attorney Austin, TX parents recommend on will need the following documents to negotiate a divorce settlement. It is best to obtain the past three to five years of all financial statements.
All real estate documents should go back to the original date of purchase.
- All financial account statements, including checking and savings accounts, certificate of deposits, stocks, and bonds;
- Retirement accounts and pension statements;
- Federal and state tax returns;
- Deeds to all real estate, including jointly and solely owned;
- Mortgage statements;
- Home equity lines of credit statements;
- Real estate tax bills;
- Appraisals of property; and
- Rental receipts and leases for any rental property owned.
Marital Assets and Debts
It is also important to make an inventory of all of the marital assets, as well as all of the marital debt that you and your spouse have. This again includes both joint and sole accounts. The court will not necessarily rely just on whose name is on an account as the owner, but will instead likely consider account as part of the marital estate. There are exceptions to that and your family attorney can explain what those exceptions are.
Estate Planning Decisions
If you have made the decision to divorce your spouse, there are certain estate planning matters you may also need to change. For instance, if you do not want your spouse to be able to make medical decisions or end-of-life decisions on your behalf, then your family attorney can assist you in drafting an advanced directive. Your attorney can also assist you in drafting a new will and any other estate planning documents you currently have in place.
Contact a Family Attorney Austin, TX Locals Call for Assistance
If you would like to discuss your situation with a family law attorney Austin, TX provides from The Law Offices of Ryan S. Dougay, call today to set up a free consultation.