Many folks can indeed handle their divorce themselves. The court forms for dissolution, parenting plans, and child support are all available as fill-in pdfs online. If you can fill out a form, you can file a parening plan. In San Juan County, the Courthouse Facilatator can assist with many family law issues, without providing legal advice.

Facing any of the following five issues? You should talk to an attorney.

1. Child custody disputes - Child custody can be one of the most emotionally fraught aspects of a divorce. Hiring a divorce attorney who specializes in child custody disputes can help ensure that your parental rights are protected and that the best interests of your children are taken into account.

2. Complex financial issues - If a divorce involves complex financial issues such as ownership of a home, high-value assets, business ownership, or retirement accounts, a divorce attorney with expertise in handling complex financial matters could be invaluable in ensuring a fair and equitable division of property.

3. Domestic violence or abuse - If you or your children have been the victims of domestic violence or abuse, a divorce attorney who has experience handling these types of cases can help you obtain a restraining order and protect your safety during the divorce process.

4. San Juan County divorce - Everything is different on an island. If a divorce involves parties who live on the same island, different islands, the mainland, or have children, or assets or property in different countries, an attorney with experience in the unique challenges, and blessings of living in San Juan County and can help navigate the complex legal issues involved.

5. Emotional support - Divorce can be a difficult and emotionally draining experience. Your lawyer isn't your therapist, but make sure you feel comfortable discussing the sensitive issues at stake with your attorney. Clear and open communication is essential as clients navigate the legal and emotional process with greater ease and less stress.

Talk to more than one attorney before deciding which to retain.  Choosing a family law attorney is an important decision at a tough time.For better or for worse, a family law case is, for most people, their first and only encounter with our legal system. The choice of attorney can mean the difference between surviving, and thriving during that encounter, or something much, much worse.