Many experienced lawyers do exist but, like any profession, you’ll find some not-so-great lawyers. If you’re facing a divorce, you’ll want a knowledgeable, skilled family lawyer fighting for your rights. When searching for a Greensboro divorce law firm to help you achieve a favorable outcome, choose Morgenstern & Associates.
Ways An Incompetent Attorney Can Hurt Your Case
Obtaining a divorce is a civil action requiring you to follow certain procedures. You begin by filing documents with the court and serving your spouse with a complaint and summons. However, incomplete paperwork and/or improper service can hamper your case at its inception.
Typically, the complaint lists the parties, the reason for the lawsuit, and the relief requested. Forgetting to sign a document or providing incomplete information may require an amended form, delaying the process. Moreover, a failure to correct the deficiencies may result in the dismissal of your case.
After receiving the complaint and summons, you must file a response within 30 days. When you fail to answer the complaint within the statutory requirement, the court may issue a default judgment.
Generally, when you don’t answer the complaint, the court assumes you agree to all the terms included in the complaint. This includes marital property division, child custody, and spousal support. Thus, failing to respond may result in a permanent loss of rights.
As you can see, having competent legal help in your divorce case is crucial right from the beginning. Without legal counsel, you could end up making mistakes affecting you for the rest of your life.
How To Find A Qualified Divorce Attorney
Divorce is very common in the U.S., so you may know several people who’ve undergone the process. You can start by asking these friends for referrals and about their experience.
Additionally, you can check your local bar association’s directory. Along with listing the lawyer’s practice areas, you can view their education and other credentials.
Finally, legal directories can help you find the right lawyer. For 150 years, Martindale-Hubbell has been an established leader in compiling verified attorney evaluations. This directory offers both peer and client reviews and ratings making it easy to find the right attorney. In fact, we have received an AV rating in Martindale Hubbell for 25 years.
Characteristics Of A Great Family Law Attorney
Once you’ve selected a few attorneys, it’s important to meet face to face or talk over the phone. During this encounter, look for the following characteristics:
- Good communication skills
- Objectivity
- Compassion
- Patience
Nothing is worse than being in the middle of a divorce and not knowing the status of your case. Often, knowing where you are in the process can help alleviate a lot of anxiety. A good lawyer will take your calls, answer your emails, or get back to you promptly.
Frequently, during your divorce process, you may experience a lot of anger at your spouse. You may even want to inflict punishment for any alleged wrongs committed. A good attorney can help you remain objective to negotiate a fair settlement.
Moreover, the divorce process is draining emotionally, physically, and financially. Having an attorney that is both compassionate and patient can help you feel validated and understood. This in turn will lessen the intensity of some of your stronger emotions concerning the divorce. Hopefully, with a clearer head, you can negotiate a settlement quicker.
Greensboro Divorce Law Firm – FAQs
The legal complexities of any divorce case require the help of an experienced attorney. To help you in your search, we’ve answered a few of our most commonly asked questions. However, each case is unique and you should always consult your lawyer for advice on the specifics of your case.
Can I Get Divorced Even If My Spouse Doesn’t Want One?
Yes. Once you and your spouse have been living physically apart for 1 year, divorce proceedings may begin. If your spouse refuses to acknowledge the process, the law does provide some legal remedies. We’ve already talked about a default judgment if your spouse chooses to ignore the complaint.
But, what if your spouse refuses to leave and you cannot afford to find another residence? Under very limited circumstances, the court may order divorce from bed and board. Abandonment, physical abuse, or drug abuse are some situations the court will consider to force your partner to leave.
When you hire Morgenstern & Associates, we can explore your options and discuss the best way to proceed. We can help you navigate the complexities of family law to a favorable outcome.
What If My Spouse Refuses To Sign The Divorce Papers?
Once you’ve met the statutory requirement of living apart for 1 year, your divorce can advance. You don’t need your spouse to sign any paperwork or go to court. As long as you can prove your spouse received the proper legal notice of the divorce, your case can continue.
How Much Will My Divorce Cost?
The time required to settle a divorce case varies greatly. Thus, it’s impossible to say how much your divorce will cost. While we try to keep costs down by avoiding court, much depends on the cooperation of your spouse.
Why Choose Morgenstern & Associates?
Delaying hiring an attorney to handle your divorce case may result in a loss of rights. Don’t wait! When searching for an experienced Greensboro divorce law firm to handle your case, choose Morgenstern & Associates.
Our attorneys, Barbara R. Morgenstern and Ashley D. Bennington have over 40 years of combined experience in family law. Plus, both are board-certified specialists in family law, designating their level of expertise. Moreover, U.S. News & World Report lists us as a Tier 1 family law firm in a metropolitan area.
Call us today at 336-203-9110 to discuss the particulars of your situation, You’ll find compassion, understanding, and above all, expertise.