Even if you and your spouse are on the best of terms, you need to fully understand your legal rights as to property settlement, support, and child sharing. If you waive any marital rights during divorce, you absolutely cannot enforce them later. Once you sign those divorce papers, it's too late to say, "Wait a minute, maybe I shouldn't waive my rights to your retirement account, stock options, real estate, life insurance, business interests, bank accounts, and cash." Keep in mind, working with a lawyer and going to court are not the same thing. You and your spouse always have the power to design your own marital settlement agreement working with a divorce attorney.

Need an attorney in Bakersfield, CA?

Find the right attorney by reviewing and comparing our profiles of lawyers and their law firms, with details on each attorney and their colleague’s practice, experience, education, training, honors and fee structure. Carefully consider client reviews and recommendations from people just like you. If you have complex legal needs, a larger firm with multiple attorneys who can advise you in different areas may be the best fit. If your needs are more limited and very specific, consider a smaller firm. Speak with several Bakersfield divorce attorneys to find the one that is best for you.

Ask yourself the 3 C’s:

Credentials ‐ How many cases has this attorney worked on similar to yours?
Comfort ‐ Who are you most comfortable working with? Is the lawyer’s office nearby? How and how often will they get in touch with you?
Cost ‐ Have expected costs and fees been clearly explained to you? It’s OK to ask for an estimate.