by Denise Bond

Created on: January 20, 2009   Last Updated: January 31, 2009

Divorce 101

When faced with the prospect of a pending divorce, it is imperative that one take immediate action to become informed and knowledgeable regarding the laws of the State in which you reside. By gaining information regarding the divorce process in your State, you can better protect your rights and assets. The most simple way to accomplish this task is through a consultation with an attorney who specializes in family law issues. If finances prevent the retention of an attorney, there are many resources available to the public which can provide you with information regarding divorce.

For most people the legal system is an unknown entity and locating appropriate legal representation can be a daunting task. There are several ways to go about finding an attorney who would be a "good match" for your personality. There are of course local advertisements, the internet and phone books. However, there are also several other options. Word of mouth or personal reference is always a good way to find an attorney. But for some, the emotional trauma of a divorce, and the need for privacy, may prohibit one from asking friends and neighbors for a referral. An alternative resource can be the State Bar Association. Each State has a listing of attorney's admitted to practice law within that respective State. The bar association for any given State can provide referrals to attorney's specializing in divorce.

Once you have obtained the name of several attorneys, it is important to have an intitial consultation with each to determine whether your personalities are a match. Most attorneys will provide a free, initial consultaion in an effort to gain your business. When making an appointment, be sure to ask for a free initial consultation, ask how long the consultation will be, and what, if anything, you need to bring with you. In order to save time and any expense, you must attend this appointment prepared. Given the emotional roller coaster most people experience at this point in their divorce proceedings, a list of written questions you may have will help to organize and steer the conversation, so that you leave this meeting informed and with your specific questions answered.

After you have retained counsel, the laws of the State in which you live will kick in. These laws will include the issuance of a Complaint for Divorce and a Summons to be served to the opposing side. The Complaint for Divorce is a statement containing the general facts of the case and the desired outcome

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