Getting divorced is difficult. Though every couple has different reasons for ending their marriage, the circumstances rarely make divorce an easy process to endure. There are many different elements to consider, especially when it comes to the legal and personal logistical challenges that may arise during divorce. No matter the unique challenges of your divorce, it is important to the process that you find an attorney you can trust.
At The Love DuCote Law Firm, we understand how sensitive the divorce process can be, and our skilled attorneys approach these cases with compassion, kindness, and patience. This approach is a rarity in the world of divorce law, and we are proud to stand out from our peers in this way. To help you determine if our women’s divorce representation is right for you, we have provided answers to some common questions.
Q. Are There Divorce Lawyers for Women?
All attorneys should be able to work with clients of any gender. In fact, it is part of an attorney’s responsibility to fight for the rights of their clients regardless of sex or gender expression. Thus, any divorce attorney can technically represent women.
However, in some situations, it can help to find an attorney of the same gender to represent you. Many women find this comforting and discover that it is easier to talk to their attorney this way. Others search for firms that specialize in representing women clients, seeking the unique skillsets or similar communication styles that can promote a strong bond with their attorney. No matter your priorities, it is important to remember that you must feel comfortable with your family law attorney, regardless of gender.
Q. As a Woman, What Traits Do I Look For in a Divorce Attorney?
If you are a woman beginning the divorce process and searching for an attorney, it is critical to consider your own personal traits first. Ask yourself the following questions:
- How do you normally handle hardship and emotional situations?
- Do you meet these events with indignance and defiance?
- Do you shut down?
- Do you become sad or angry?
Reflecting on your personal traits can help to guide you to an attorney with corresponding traits that will serve you well. Generally speaking, look for the following traits in a divorce attorney:
- Patience
- Understanding
- Kindness
- Tenacity
- Experience in the field
- Time to provide you with attention
- Loyalty
- An excellent track record
If you feel that you have special or unique circumstances, allow those to further narrow your search criteria.
Q. What If I’m the Primary Breadwinner?
Decades ago, a woman earning the bulk of the household income would be relatively unheard of. Now, however, it is becoming more likely for women to earn fair salaries comparable to men in the same field, sometimes even outearning their spouses.
As a primary breadwinner, you may be concerned about the logistics of your divorce and how your salary will hurt or help you. It is important to note that if there is a significant discrepancy between your salary and your spouse’s, you may end up being responsible for spousal and/or child support payments. This can apply even if you and your spouse split custody, depending on the details of your income. However, if you and your ex-spouse have similar salaries, support likely won’t be needed in cases of shared or split custody.
When you are the primary breadwinner and searching for legal representation, it is important to find an attorney who respects your wishes surrounding finances. Your attorney’s job is to help to achieve the best results for you in your divorce settlement. If you have worries about your financial well being both before and after your divorce, mention them to your attorney as soon as possible.
Q. Will I Automatically Have Full Child Custody?
It is a common misconception that courts always give custody to the children’s mother. This is rooted in old, outdated notions of how households are structured. In modern times, the judge will determine custody based only on what is best for the children involved. If both you and your ex-spouse are positive parental figures and treat your children well, joint custody is a distinct possibility.
However, if you or your ex-spouse have a demanding career, the court may opt for primary custody to go to the parent with more time to care for the children. Similarly, past issues like legal trouble, a criminal record, or drug and alcohol dependency may result in one parent receiving primary custody. In general, gender does not often influence child custody, as judges focus on child safety and happiness.
How to Find a Divorce Lawyer in Sugar Land, TX
If you are a Sugar Land, Katy, Houston, Fort Bend County or Harris County Texas resident looking for an accomplished divorce lawyer for women to represent you, contact The Love DuCote Law Firm at your earliest convenience. Our attorneys have the compassion, patience, and reliability women often seek, as well as a firm understanding of what women experience during divorce. Let us put our unique perspective to work for you.
