Divorce is often a time of significant personal turmoil. Be prepared for nearly every aspect of your life to undergo rapid change. Don't rush to settle. The decisions and choices you make now will certainly impact the rest of your life and the lives of people you care about.

It’s about so much more than simply ending your marriage. You must deal with child custody, the division of property, spousal support, and numerous other hurdles.

Divorce and custody laws vary from state to state. Most people benefit from the steady hand of an experienced attorney, one well-versed in Oregon law.

At a basic level, divorce appears simple.

• You fill out the proper forms,
• serve your spouse,
• disclose all assets and debts,
• work out an agreement,
• and sign the final papers.

In uncontested divorce cases, things can proceed in this manner. This happens most often in short marriages, ones without children and little property to divide. It’s also possible for spouses to agree on all the key issues.

The more you have to deal with, the more complex your case becomes. Children, substantial wealth, or long marriages complicate matters.

You may need to advocate for a fair share of the financial resources. When couples can’t agree on these or other significant issues, arbitration or mediation often becomes a viable option.

If those methods fail, you may find yourself in court.

Related Reading: What To Know About Divorce Forms & Filing

The decision to hire a divorce lawyer varies depending on the specific circumstances of the case. What works in one situation doesn’t always work in another.

• No two cases play out the same way.
• Every situation has a unique set of variables.
• Every state has its laws regarding divorce and custody.

In a simple or pro se divorce, you may be able to fill out the paperwork on your own and only need an attorney to finalize your documents to make sure you don't accidentally agree to something you don't mean to. Modifications after the fact can be challenging to accomplish, and judges don't

If you have children, a lawyer with experience in custody cases may be your best option for navigating these complex matters.  If you have a great deal of property to divide, you’d want an attorney with a background in high-asset divorce.

The perfect fit for one case isn’t always an ideal fit for every case. Divorce lawyers often specialize.  All we do is family law.

In-Depth Reading: When should you hire a divorce attorney?

Preparing For A Divorce Consultation
How Is Property Divided In Divorce In Oregon?
The Most Common Mediation Questions Answered.
What Is A Divorce Deposition?
Should You File For Divorce First?
Should You Move Out During Divorce? Not Yet, Here’s Why.