When you find the right attorney for your divorce case, it can be a welcome relief. Having the advice of an experienced professional can help ensure that your interests are protected at every stage of the process. Some clients think that having a lawyer means paying a fee and merely directing their representative to speak and act on their behalf. However, the most successful attorney-client relationships involve collaboration. Here is why your divorce attorney should be your partner and not just your mouthpiece.
Your Attorney is Trained in Family Law
One of the primary benefits of hiring a Wisconsin family law attorney for your divorce case is that you get to consult with someone who understands this area of the law. Just as you would see an orthopedist for a broken leg or a mechanic to examine your vehicle, you are talking with someone specifically trained in Wisconsin family law.
Legal areas are constantly evolving and can change in response to appellate decisions and court rules. Real estate lawyers understand and are up to date in matters that have to do with Wisconsin property law. Intellectual Property attorneys know all the latest information about patent law. Wisconsin family law attorneys are well-informed on the latest developments in divorce, child custody and placement, child support, and other related laws.
Your attorney knows Wisconsin family law and can give you crucial advice that comes from their training, expertise, and experience. When you consider your lawyer’s advice, you can make informed decisions about your case.
You Have to Live with the Consequences
Sometimes clients want to use their lawyer as a weapon to fight with or get back at their exes, rather than as a legal advocate. Divorce provides countless opportunities to get into conflict. If they choose to, parties can fight over everything from deadlines to hearing dates to dishes. With all of the negative emotions that divorce can invoke, it can be tempting to have your lawyer be antagonistic towards your ex or refuse to agree to a reasonable request out of spite. However, standing behind your attorney while they do or says something to make your ex uncomfortable will not put distance between you and the act. Your attorney is acting in your direction, and it’s you who will have to live with the fallout.
After your case ends, your attorney will move on, but you will have to live with the consequences of your actions. If you and your ex have kids, how you treat one another during the divorce will be especially lasting. Even if you don’t have children, it’s essential to consider what you are truly gaining through your actions. If you are seeking justice for past wrongdoings, you won’t find it in your divorce case. No amount of fighting with your ex during the case can bring you that kind of peace.
Additionally, if your attorney is advising against what you want to do, but you persist out of malice, it could negatively impact your case. The court has limits as to what kind of behavior it will tolerate from parties. If you violate the rules, there could be sanctions or other consequences.
The Attorney-Client Relationship During Divorce
Every divorce is as unique as the people involved in the relationship, and numerous factors can impact a case and its direction. When you find the right Wisconsin family law attorney, they will want to know your side of the story so they can provide you with advice that fits your situation.
By working together as a team, you and your lawyer can examine any issues and develop a strategy for your case. As your divorce progresses, you and your counsel will be able to collaborate and make changes to the plan as needed. When you and your family law attorney work as partners, you can focus on getting the best possible results for you.
Attorney and mediator Karyn Youso of First Look Family Law has extensive experience helping clients during divorce and can help you evaluate your situation.
