Your Guide for
Legal Divorce Issues

For most of us, divorce marks the entrance into a whole new world we didn't think we'd ever have to visit: the legal world. You may not even know where to start, and maybe the mere thought of it makes you want to bury your head in the sand.

You may not have seen the inside of a court room aside from Judge Judy, and wouldn't know the difference between a sub subpoena and a deposition, but divorce can change all that. Suddenly you're thrown into a legal quagmire, and you're wondering: “Do I need an attorney? What's the difference between joint and sole custody? Will I get child support?”

Even after the divorce proceedings are put behind you, new legal divorce issues can arise. Sometimes you need to revise your divorce decree because it wasn't specific enough, or your situation has changed. If a parent moves out of state, or supervised visitation is ordered by a judge, or the amount of child support or alimony changes, these things must be updated in your divorce decree.

Of course, there is all the nagging issue that arises when one parent doesn't hold up their end of the bargain. You may need to take legal action if child support is not being paid , or assets have not been distributed according to the decree.

If you're having legal divorce issues but can't afford an attorney, there are things you can do. Contact your local courthouse and ask if they have a free legal clinic for family court issues- most do. You can also contact a law school in your area to see if law students will help you pro bono (which means free).

Mediation is also an option, if you would rather keep your case out of the courthouse. This is sometimes a very effective way to work through legal divorce issues. The most important thing to remember is you always have options. It's not necessary to fight dirty in order to protect your interests. There are ways to get what you need without a long and draining legal battle.

If you are seeking a divorce because you're in an abusive relationship, you may be eligible for free legal advice and help from Legal Aid. This government agency will even help you obtain a protective order to protect yourself and your kids, and allow you to move your belongings out of the house without incident.

This is the place to ask your burning legal divorce question, and get answers. Read what others have done in similar situations, and get ideas. Know that you're not alone, and it's not the end of the world.

Divorce Checklist- Things to Know Before You File

Learn About Joint Child Custody and Sole Custody

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