The Value of Divorce Attorneys in Columbus, Ohio

Divorce is a complex, emotional, time-consuming process. In Ohio, a marriage can be ended through a divorce or a dissolution. A divorce action is usually a contested proceeding that is initiated by the filing of a complaint. That means the parties are unable to agree on everything when terminating their marriage. In a divorce, the Court helps determine following issues: custody of their children, the full division of their assets, child support, spousal support, or other related subjects. Divorce proceeding require an understanding of legal issues and the ability to navigate the court system.

If you are getting a divorce, then it’s time to start searching for divorce attorneys. Columbus, Ohio’s preeminent newspaper, the Columbus Dispatch, agrees. The Dispatch highlights the importance of hiring a divorce attorney in an article titled:  Do-It-Yourself Divorce: Skipping lawyers saves money, but amateurs’ mistakes gum up an already clogged system. In the article, Judge James W. Mason of the Franklin County Domestic Relations Court commented: “self-representation is an absolute right. But it slows an already-clogged system that isn’t designed for amateurs.” Domestic Relations Judge Dana Suzanne Preisse added that “it’s kind of a nightmare sometimes . . . You would prefer to have at least one competent attorney on the case.”

The Franklin County Clerk of Court’s also strongly recommends that you seek legal counseling before starting a divorce or dissolution procedure. The Clerk of Court’s website warns that if you choose to represent yourself, some legal research will be necessary. The Court is strict about the proper forms, formats and requirements needed for a divorce procedure. Moreover, the Ohio State Bar Association believes that “Working with Your Divorce Lawyer Can Save You Money and Enhance Your Settlement.”

The attorneys at Edward F. Whipps can help you in your divorce proceedings. We take an amicable if possible, assertive when necessary approach. We know how to help our clients avail themselves of the mediation process to minimize the emotional toll and high costs of litigation. A divorce may conclude with an uncontested hearing after a settlement is reached, which ends the expense and distress of the divorce process. We believe that if you must file for divorce, you can still reach an amicable agreement under the right circumstances. This is especially true with experienced and skilled attorneys working toward that result.

Please contact Edward F. Whipps & Associates to discuss your situation with one of our qualified divorce attorneys in Columbus, Ohio. Edward F. Whipps & Associates has an extensive background in psychology and a strong focus on family law. Call us today to arrange a mutually convenient time for a consultation at our Columbus office at (614) 398-4182, our Dublin office at (614) 461-6007, or toll-free at (877) 367-6544

Things to Consider if You are Thinking about Representing Yourself in a Divorce Proceeding

Carefully consider the potential outcomes of the decision to represent yourself in a divorce proceeding. The truth is that no matter how good your legal position may be (or how good you think it may be), you will be at a serious disadvantage in most situations.  Moreover, the emotional stress of a divorce could cloud your judgment and cause you to make a decision before carefully discussing them with a knowledgeable individual.

Opposing parties who have hired lawyers will have access to trained professionals who understand the complex and challenging court system, who know how to try cases, who understand judges and juries, and who have access to research and resources that you may not even know how to access. 

Even worse, legal professionals—whether they are opposing attorneys, court personnel, or even judges—will assume that you don’t have an understanding of “the way things work.”  They may view you as a burden on their time and energy and anticipate that you will struggle with doing things the “right way,” even if those assumptions are wrong.  The reality is that the legal system tends to favor parties who hire attorneys. 

Here at Edward F. Whipps, we want you to know that you do not have to navigate these murky waters alone. Although divorce can sometimes be a time consuming and expensive process, it is often possible to work out mutually amicable solutions without such extensive litigation. With over 30 years of experience and a unique understanding of psychology and its role in the process, the attorneys at Edward F. Whipps & Associates are well equipped to maximize your results with the most efficient and respectful legal approaches.

Call Edward F. Whipps & Associates for a free consultation at our Columbus office at (614) 398-4182, our Dublin office at (614) 461-6007, or toll-free at (877) 367-6544