You are ready to file for divorce in Milwaukee and have questions. In Wisconsin, divorces are usually not complicated. You can state that your marriage is broken beyond repair, and even if your spouse doesn’t want to cooperate, you can initiate the proceedings, provided you fulfill residency requirements. Hiring a Milwaukee divorce attorney is a wise step before you make significant decisions, although you have the right to represent yourself. We have a few pointers below that can help you find the right attorney.
Reasons to engage an attorney
People have different reasons to hire a divorce lawyer, but you should definitely hire one if
- You have significant marital assets
- Your spouse is unlikely to cooperate or agree to the process
- There are serious issues related to child custody, visitation rights, and parenting schedules
- You need alimony, also known as maintenance in Wisconsin
- You don’t understand the legal jargon or how to go through the process
- You need help with paperwork
- There is a chance that you may need to go for divorce mediation
- You have joint accounts with your spouse
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?
The cost of your divorce depends on several factors, including how you cooperate with your attorney. As far as the fee of the lawyer is concerned, you will typically pay a flat charge for an uncontested divorce. Your lawyer will take care of the paperwork and ensure that you don’t compromise your interests. A contested divorce is usually more expensive, and most law firms in Milwaukee charge an hourly rate for such cases. You can ask the attorney for a ballpark, but contested divorces can cost up to $10,000 or more.
Finding the right lawyer
Not all divorce lawyers are the same, and you need to do your homework about comparing options. Hire an attorney who is based in Milwaukee and is open to working on a flat fee for your uncontested divorce. They should be available to take your questions and must explain the legal process in detail. You can also check online reviews of top divorce lawyers to sort your options. If yours is a high-net divorce, ask if the lawyer has worked on similar cases. Also, check the lawyer’s profile and whether they have experience in mediation matters.
Schedule an appointment with an attorney soon after you decide to file for divorce so you don’t make common mistakes.
