Undoubtedly you are curious if you need a family law attorney for a divorce. At present things with your spouse might be amicable. So you are resorting to playing google lawyer in an effort to learn as much about the process as possible. 

I tell people I can play google doctor and look up 'how to perform open heart surgery on myself,' purchase a scalpel and some Tylenol and attempt the procedure on myself. We all know how stupid that would be. The same is true with a non lawyer trying to represent him or herself in a matter, especially if the other spouse has an attorney. Being unrepresented is like taking a knife to a gun fight. Attorneys regularly enjoy trying cases against individuals representing themselves since the unrepresented individual is ignorant of the process. They do not know the rules of civil procedure, rules of evidence, 200 years of case law and statutes, what evidence is important, and judicial trends.

If a divorce and custody attorney is going through a divorce he or she almost always hires another lawyer to represent him or her. Why? Because lawyers are taught in law school, 'anyone who represents himself has a fool for a client.' When you are personally going through a divorce, even if you are a lawyer, you cannot think independently and objectively. You have too much emotionally invested and need an advocate and counselor who is clear headed and detached.

Even if you and your spouse know exactly how you want to divide the property and which child custody schedule you want, I still strongly urge you to get a lawyer. That lawyer can inform you of what you are giving up. You might be unknowingly willing to give up much more than you would receive otherwise. Additionally, your lawyer can better protect your rights, property, and parenting time. At James Judkins attorney we can propose alternative solutions to attempt to speed up a settlement. 

Family law is complex so you are well advised to find a divorce lawyer with years of experience.

About me

I am James M. "Jim" Judkins and for almost 12 years family law has been a big part of my practice. I enjoy helping people. Located in the heart of Murfreesboro and in Smithville, Tennessee, I represent clients in family law situations all throughout Tennessee. Helping people successfully through the some of the most turbulent times of their lives gives me a great sense of accomplishment.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only, and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information contained in this post should be construed as legal advice from James M. Judkins, attorney or the individual author, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting on the basis of any information included in, or accessible through, this blog without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient's state, country or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.