DIY Divorces Lead to Risky Financial Futures

Brandon, FL (Law Firm Newswire) April 18, 2011 – Divorces that go smoothly without lawyers and thorough negotiations can come back to haunt individuals many years later. Tampa family law attorney Laurel A. Tesmer recently had a new client come to her for legal guidance with a stressful situation. The client’s ex-spouse did not fill out the divorce paperwork correctly and did not pay the house mortgage, leaving her liable.

“Time after time, we hear about sad events like this,” said Tesmer, who counsels clients at Osenton Law Offices, P.A. “If the paperwork is not filled out correctly, an individual will be responsible for debts held jointly with their ex and could have their credit and future opportunities greatly diminished.”

After a divorce, most individuals start on their separate ways and oftentimes remarry, have children, and sometimes move out of state. Years later, when it is time for a big purchase or financial change, the error of filling out the divorce paperwork without legal guidance comes to light.

“The legal fees you pay upfront can save you thousands later,” Tesmer said. “Getting advice about your rights, all the issues that must be addressed, and what to expect take the uncertainty away and give you peace of mind for the future.”

Even uncontested divorces where spouses agree to all the details of the divorce should seek legal counsel. DIY websites make it look easy, but the reality is that the forms for dissolving marriage, financial declarations, motions and notices for hearings, child support worksheets, and fee documentation can become overwhelming and stressful. Most websites that offer document prep services are not staffed by divorce lawyers. The truth is that divorce legal assistants staff these companies and sometimes are not even in the local area to truly know what is required in Tampa Bay and Florida.

And for couples that can hardly agree let alone be in the same room with each other, legal representation is key. All the issues must be defined for the division of assets and debts, alimony and spousal support, child custody and support payments, and any other matters that arise. A much more favorable outcome in a divorce proceeding is with legal counsel to help every step of the way.

From negotiations to reviewing documents for accuracy and completion, Osenton Law Offices, P.A., confidently advocates for their client’s rights. Beyond divorce, Laurel Tesmer also counsels in stepparent adoptions, visitation and time-sharing modifications, and enforcement proceedings. She is a member of the Marital and Family Law Sections of the Florida Bar and belongs to the Hillsborough County Bar Association.

To learn more or to contact a Tampa estate planning lawyer, Brandon estate planning attorney, or Brandon family law attorneyor to contact a Brandon lawyer visit, http://www.brandonlawoffice.com.

Osenton Law Office, PA
500 Lithia Pinecrest Road
Brandon, Florida 33511
Call: (813) 654-5777