Any divorce can give rise to multiple issues. There can be disputes about the date of separation, the nature, extent and value of the community property. There can be issues with respect to reimbursements or credits. There can be issues relating to the care and custody of the children, support, as well as a breach of fiduciary duty, domestic violence, and contempt, just to name a few.
With so many potential issues, it is no wonder a party with full representation could easily spend $100,000 or more on their professional fees. That borders on insane.
Does every issue require attorney representation or is it more likely that some issues do while others may not? Let’s say you have a modest income, a modest estate, but a troubled relationship with the soon-to-be ex that impacts getting a reasonable co-parenting plan in place. It may be very advisable to retain counsel to handle that aspect of the case. For a number of years now, the State has agreed and provided provision for Limited Scope Representation. Besides having lawyer assistance on certain issues, you can also retain a lawyer ‘Limited Scope’ for such things as preparing your papers, appearing in court, coaching you, or handling aspects like discovery.
Of course, you should give your lawyer an overview of the entire case so it can be discussed and determined if there are any problem areas and if limited scope representation is for you. If it is appropriate, you are only paying the lawyer for the specific role that they are taking in your case. The lawyer can be efficient with their time as the task is limited in scope and you potentially take on the more time-consuming tasks that could otherwise cost you a fortune. You also maintain greater control over your case.
Even if you cannot afford a lawyer to handle the entire case, having a lawyer for some issues or scope is often better than self representation. It took your competent lawyer many years of study and experience to gain the insight they have. You cannot expect to have that same insight and understanding of the law doing your own first divorce.
James P. Reape received his Juris Doctorate from Pepperdine University in 1982. After practicing law in Encino for several years, he founded James P. Reape, A Professional Corporation, in 1992 and moved his practice to Valencia, California. He is currently a Senior Partner at the Reape-Rickett Law Firm. For more information, visit the firm at www.divorcedigest.com.
For more information about support and other family law matters, contact the Reape-Rickett Law Firm at 661-288-1000. They are located at 25152 Springfield Court, Suite 100 in Valencia.