If you and your spouse have decided to get a divorce, you may be wondering if you need to hire an attorney or if you can file on your own. While many states allow you to get divorced without an attorney, you should consider if it's really a good idea to do so. Even if you don't have children and your finances are limited, it's still a good idea to at least consult with an attorney about your divorce. If your divorce involves minor children, a large financial estate, or disagreements with your spouse, then hiring an attorney is the best way to ensure your best interests are protected. Here's why you should hire an attorney for your divorce.

A Divorce Settlement Is Difficult To Change

If you reach an agreement with your spouse on your own, put it in writing, and sign it, then you won't be able to change your mind once the divorce is final. You may realize later you made a big mistake that will haunt you or affect your children for years to come. Even if you work out a settlement with your spouse, let an attorney look it over before you sign it. That way you won't unwittingly agree to something that will harm you or your kids in the future. In some cases, it might be possible to go to court to modify the divorce, but that could involve a long and stressful process that could have been avoided by getting help from an attorney at the start.

Dividing Financial Assets Is Difficult

If you own a home, have stocks, have a retirement plan, or have a lot of money and financial assets, dividing them and your debts is not an easy task to do on your own. You need to understand the laws and tax regulations that pertain to your situation. You want to exit your marriage with good credit and a bright financial future. If your divorce is friendly, then you want the best outcome for both of you. If you and your spouse are bitter, then you need an attorney that makes sure you get what's rightfully yours. An attorney knows the laws that affect you that you may not know exist or that you don't understand, and when it comes to finances, you want someone with experience to help protect your possessions and money.

People Are Unpredictable

You may think you know your spouse well and can trust them, but people can be unpredictable during stressful times such as a divorce and when dealing with child custody. Your friendly divorce may quickly turn into a bitter fight that includes revenge and deliberately creating obstacles that prevent coming to agreements. Your spouse may listen to friends and family and decide you're not entitled to the house or kids and suddenly decide not to go through with your original plans. If there's any reason your spouse will become disagreeable or resentful during the divorce, it could be best to hire an attorney at the start.