Going through a divorce is one of the most stressful and emotionally draining experiences someone can face. Not only are you dealing with the breakdown of your marriage, but you’re also facing complex legal issues around division of assets, child custody arrangements, financial disentanglement, and more. While some couples are able to reach an amicable, uncontested divorce settlement on their own, most situations require the expertise of an experienced divorce lawyer in Hawaii. Here are some key reasons why:
Equitable Distribution of Property/Debts
Hawaii is an “equitable distribution” state, meaning marital assets and debts are divided in an equitable (not necessarily equal) manner upon divorce. This requires determining which property and debt is considered “marital” versus “separate,” properly valuing assets, and negotiating a fair settlement. A divorce attorney understands the nuances of Hawaii’s property division laws and procedures to advocate for your fair share.
Child Custody & Support
If you have children, matters like child custody, visitation schedules, and child support are often the most contentious and important issues. An attorney is an advocate for protecting your parental rights and establishing custody/timesharing arrangements that serve your children’s best interests long-term. They also ensure accurate child support calculations per Hawaii guidelines.
Determining Need for Spousal Support
Depending on factors like length of marriage, earning potential of each spouse and more, one spouse may be entitled to receive alimony payments from the other in Hawaii. An experienced divorce lawyer reviews your situation to determine eligibility and advocate for a fair spousal maintenance award, if applicable.
Navigating Complex Legal Process
Divorce in Hawaii involves strict legal procedures, court requirements, fees, mountains of paperwork, and unforgiving deadlines. Trying to handle all the complex technical details yourself is extremely difficult. A lawyer oversees and manages the entire legal process in your local jurisdiction to avoid costly missteps.
Resolving Conflicts Objectively
Even if both spouses initially want an amicable split, deep feelings of resentment or hurt can make negotiations difficult between spouses. A divorce attorney serves as an invaluable neutral third-party who can objectively negotiate disputes, deflate heightened emotions, and find reasonable compromises to avoid costly court battles.
While hiring a divorce lawyer represents an added expense upfront, their long-term value in protecting your legal rights, financial situation, and parental interests is well worth the investment. With a knowledgeable advocate on your side from start to finish, you can make it through this extremely challenging transition while avoiding critical missteps. Your fresh start deserves a strong legal foundation.