One of the most daunting tasks for many divorcing spouses in Colorado is hiring a family lawyer. You may be worried about incurring legal fees, and you might be wondering whether you even need a lawyer to resolve your divorce. Perhaps you feel like you are unqualified to assess the various options for divorce lawyers in Loveland, and you are anxious about hiring the wrong legal professional. All of these concerns are completely understandable, and you can express them during your first consultation with a divorce lawyer. 

Can You Represent Yourself During a Divorce Trial?

According to the Colorado Judicial Branch, you are allowed to represent yourself in your divorce case. Technically speaking, there is no requirement to hire a lawyer. If you represent yourself, this is called “appearing pro se,” and the court will recognize you. However, you are expected to understand all of the various rules and processes in Colorado's divorce system. Judges and court officials will not explain these rules to you. If you breach the rules in any way, you may experience serious consequences. Courts may rule against you, even if your arguments would otherwise make perfect sense. 

What are the Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer?

Hiring a lawyer makes sense for those who are serious about pursuing positive outcomes. Here are just a few benefits to consider:

• Convenience: Perhaps the most important benefit is convenience. Once you team up with a divorce lawyer, you can focus entirely on mental health, work, and family. This is a difficult time for many spouses, and spending all your time on legal research does not make much sense. If you represent yourself, you will need to educate yourself about various legal subjects. If you hire a lawyer, you can focus on career stability. It might also make sense to spend time with your children to limit their stress and anxiety. 

• Avoiding Common Mistakes: Experienced divorce lawyers have handled many cases, and they know how to avoid common mistakes. They may also help you take advantage of opportunities that you had not previously considered. For example, you might be able to resolve your divorce through mediation – without ever going to court. If you are navigating a divorce for the first time, it is all too easy to make costly mistakes.  

• Financial Benefits: Many people worry about legal fees during divorce, but these legal professionals can actually help you save money. When you look at the bigger picture, legal fees may be relatively minimal compared to how much a lawyer can save you in a divorce. For example, your lawyer can help you walk away with your fair share of the family home. 

How Do I Choose the Most Appropriate Divorce Lawyer in Colorado?

While searching for a divorce lawyer can be daunting, you can pursue positive outcomes by following a few simple steps:

• Experience Levels: It generally makes sense to consider a lawyer's experience levels. Consider the amount of time they have been practicing family law. You might also want to consider their educational background, as this is another important aspect of their experience. 

• Unique Circumstances: Consider your unique circumstances when choosing a lawyer. What kinds of issues do you need to resolve? Is there a major dispute over child custody or property division? Are you seeking a mediated, uncontested divorce? Consider these factors and ask yourself whether the lawyer has relevant experience. 

• Communication: Communication is an important factor when choosing a lawyer. Even if you have no legal experience, you can still assess a person's communication abilities. Do they respond to your emails promptly? Is it easy to contact them by phone? Do they provide you with enough information? Consider these factors as you choose your lawyer. 

• Past Cases: As you narrow down your choices, you might want to consider a lawyer's past cases. These should be on public record, assuming the divorce went to trial. Some of these past cases may involve issues similar to your own divorce. Of course, you can also ask your lawyer whether they have handled divorces similar to your own in the past. 

A Consultation Represents an Opportunity to Learn More 

If you would like to learn more about the role of a family lawyer in a Colorado divorce, you can ask questions during consultations. This initial meeting provides an opportunity to speak with a lawyer, get a sense of their personality, and learn more about the overall legal process ahead. Note that there is no legal requirement to hire a lawyer after meeting with them. You can simply discuss your case and choose a different lawyer at a later date. 

You should also know that all discussions with family lawyers – including those that occur during initial consultations – are confidential. Even if you never hire a lawyer, they are prohibited from discussing your situation with anyone else. This gives you the freedom to provide as many details as you like about your situation. 

What Does a Family Lawyer Do During a Divorce?

After choosing to work with a lawyer, you can expect them to carry out numerous tasks during the divorce process:

• Legal Advice: Your lawyer can advise you on the most appropriate course of legal action. They may take into account your unique circumstances and determine how to move forward in an effective manner. 

• Evidence Gathering: A lawyer can help you collect and compile important documentation during the divorce process. This may be especially crucial if your ex committed misconduct during the marriage. The discovery process forces spouses to exchange all relevant documents before a trial or negotiation begins. 

• Representation: Whether you choose a mediated divorce or a litigated divorce, your lawyer can represent you and fight for your best interests. 

Find a Divorce Lawyer in Loveland

If you have been searching for an experienced divorce lawyer in Loveland, consider booking a consultation with Casey James Alexander. We know that hiring a divorce lawyer might feel like a daunting experience, and we can address any concerns or questions you might have. A consultation is a positive first step, and there is no obligation to hire your divorce lawyer after meeting them for the first time. This initial meeting may also help you feel more confident about the legal process ahead. Reach out today to get started.