When couples divorce, how do a judge decide that a fair child custody agreement is set up that balances the custody rights of both parents? Because issues of child custody and parental rights are so complex and emotionally charged, a Family Law Attorney is an invaluable asset in determining which legal proceedings fairly address the interests of… well… the interests of both parents! As a divorcing couple, you have already been through a lot of hardship. The last thing you want to do is allow the courts to override your good faith efforts to establish a fair custody arrangement. A competent lawyer can help you do just that.
Unfortunately, family law attorneys frequently charge top dollar for their services. Even those with private, affordable law firms often have to take out high interest debt to cover their professional costs. And although family attorneys are supposed to be independent and detached from any particular practice they almost always end up representing a particular firm, or paying their bills from their practice’s operating funds. If your spouse has an affordable family law practice but is unable to afford family attorneys fees, there are other avenues you can pursue to protect your legal rights.
One of the best ways to obtain affordable legal services while maintaining affordable attorney fees is to work with a legal aid program. Many non-profit organizations provide limited legal services to low-income families, including legal assistance with divorce proceedings and the filing of child support agreements. Legal aid programs are designed to ensure that low-income individuals who would otherwise not be able to afford quality legal representation receive adequate representation. Because many legal services are provided at reduced rates through these programs, individuals who may not otherwise be able to afford a family law attorneys’ practice can receive essential legal services at very affordable rates.
Another common way to find an affordable family law attorney is to work with the local board of attorneys. Although board members are elected and serve at the pleasure of the board, they are often very experienced in the legal fields and have a wealth of knowledge regarding family law matters. As most board members are also attorneys, working with a local board member can help you get more affordable legal representation. Board members can also assist you in finding child support services or in obtaining necessary legal representation while working with a parent or guardian. Additionally, many board members are able to refer you to local legal aid services.
If you would prefer to work directly with a family law lawyer, the last way to find an affordable attorney is to work with a family law firm. Though some family law firms specialize in only a specific aspect of family law, many have general departments where attorneys can be found by searching their office listing or via the internet. Working directly with a family law firm allows you to gain access to the knowledgeable attorneys who know the local laws and can guide you throughout the process. Working with a law firm also allows you to choose one attorney to represent all aspects of your family’s life including divorce law, however many law firms offer financing programs to help individuals pay for their divorce.
Affordable family lawyer attorneys are important for many families. Not only can they represent you in the legal proceedings that happen during your divorce but they can also advise you and your children about the best course of action when it comes to dealing with the other spouse. In addition, they can counsel you on the best way to resolve any property issues or other concerns that may arise during your divorce. Whether you are working directly with an attorney or working through a family law firm, you should be aware that affordable attorneys are just a phone call away.
