Divorces are complex and often emotionally draining. However, you cannot let your emotions cloud your judgements, especially for matters as serious as child custody, spousal support and division of assets. If you want to file for divorce in Quebec, the first step is to decide between a joint divorce petition or a contested divorce. In both cases, you will need a competent lawyer, who can protect your interests. When you contact someone like Andrew Heft child custody law, they will offer advice based on what’s best for your child and your own interests. In this post, we are discussing more on how to work with a family law attorney for your case.
Know the requirements
Even if you were not married in Quebec, you can file for divorce here, as long as you or your spouse has lived here for a continuous period of at least one year. There is also a mandatory waiting period of one year after separation, before divorce judgement can be passed. However, if you are separated, you can initiate proceedings right away, and when certain matters related to child support or custody needs immediate resolutions, your lawyer can ask for interim judgements. Grounds for divorce in Quebec include mental & physical cruelty, adultery, and separation.
Hiring a family law attorney
Find a family law attorney who is experienced with similar cases and has the time to take up your case. You may ask about their expertise, ability to handle matters pertinent to your case, and also about the possible outcomes. The first meeting with an attorney is the most important one, and you need to know what to expect from the case, based on legal aspects. Also, your lawyer should be able to guide you on how to settle matters with your spouse, in a way that complications can be avoided.
Things to discuss
Beyond the basic approach to the divorce, your family law attorney should be able to protect your interest and must be ready to take up negotiation with the other side, if need be. You may want to know more about the possible expenses of the case, their legal fee, and if they are working on a retainer basis, the amount to be paid for each appearance.
Also, don’t shy away from seeking references, or asking questions that may not seem smart – Your divorce case is unique, and you must be sure of all aspects.
