Return to TOC

Previous: The pre-separation agreement

Finding a lawyer

Find a lawyer before any physical separation.

This is where most people really screw up their case. Lawyers are professionals, and just like any professional they have specialty areas, as well as strength and weaknesses within those areas. Do some research and find one that has specific recent experience with custody cases. Family law is a huge profit center for the people surrounding the process and the laws are constantly under revision.

You do not want to have 2 men fighting 2 women in court.

Your spouse is going to get a female lawyer if they are smart. You need one as well! Find a great female lawyer and pay her whatever she wants.

If you and your lawyer can negotiate a property settlement and custody agreement with the opposing party without having to litigate do it!

There are going to be points that you feel are "deal breakers" but make sure they really are that important. You will have to evaluate every one of them and make sure it is really in the best interest of you and your child to litigate.

Next: Meeting with your lawyer