Divorce is not like a surgery where you go to sleep
and when you wake up, it's all over
Far from it. Divorce is hard work. Resolving to work closely with your attorney and getting it right the first time will greatly affect the outcome of your case. You must be prepared and committed to doing the homework that is asked of you. You must learn to embrace change and understand that your divorce will affect every aspect of your life (often for the better if you allow it.) One of the things I find myself repeating is
This too shall pass
Few attorneys set out to work in divorce court. In certain ways, this job found me—I did not find it. You would have to be insane to go into this line of work! I've realized over time that my life energy is best directed towards helping people resolve their issues with partners who are trying to control or take advantage of them. Male or female, gender is not the issue. The issue is intention—whether someone is acting unfairly or hurting you or your children.
Board Certification What does it mean?
No ONE WINS IN DIVORCE
The people who prevail with their dignity intact and achieve emancipation on their own terms are active participants in their legal representation. The more organized you are, the more organized your attorney will be. Be prepared to do the homework that is asked of you. Toughest of all is maintaining a sense of humor in the most unfunny and painful of circumstances.
The legal system is a foreign land to most people. It has its own language. Experience tells me that my clients need to know what to expect. I believe in educating them in law and procedure, and the importance of clear thinking. Once you are educated in a few procedures and principles, all related facts become powerful tools with which to achieve your goals amicably, or, if necessary, at trial. My common sense and "universal" approach to law enhances my ability to help people solve their problems in and out of the courtroom. My personal organizational structure, respect for the courts and knowledge of judicial tendencies can be a tremendous asset to your representation.
Initially, I might ask my clients to enlist the help of their divorced friends by asking them "What went wrong in your divorce?" I urge them to actually write down these answers and think about what can be learned. Chances are, if your friend had been better informed, they would not have made the same decisions or the same mistakes. Ask yourself:
How can I become better informed and better organized in my divorce?
If you don't understand something about your divorce, it may be that your attorney doesn't understand either. Like other professions, the practice of marital and family law is highly specialized and replete with complexities. You need to be represented by someone who understands the system, the law, the courts, and human nature. It pays to educate yourself up front, rather than in hindsight.
How do you know what to do in a divorce if you've never been through a divorce?
How do you make it easier for your children?
How do you manage your money?
How do you go about getting a new life?
Seeking out professional counseling is smart. This is a proactive step that will help your family better handle the stress of your divorce. Stress is not always apparent in all individuals concerned. Make sure you choose a good therapist; someone who you are instantly comfortable with. Only you can know who is right for you. Interview more than one professional to find a good fit.
Call my office for help finding a qualified mental health counselor and other professionals
I've been blogging and tweeting about divorce, law and human nature since 2009, drawing on my unique experience of "love, law and relationships." There is likely something here that will resonate with you. Check out my blog:
You can also follow Daytona Divorce on Twitter: twitter.com/daytonadivorce
Be advised that not all attorneys who handle divorce-related matters are Board Certified by the State of Florida. Your decision to choose a Board Certified attorney over a non-specialist is a wise one, as it will affect the outcome of your divorce. Another suggestion:
Interview more than one attorney
This is the only sure way you'll be able to compare and contrast the personality and energy of the attorney who will be closely working with you throughout your divorce. This is an individual whose work product will likely affect you long after your divorce papers are signed. In your initial consultation, a competent attorney will be interviewing you as well. A successful attorney does not need your case, but will elect to work with you for a variety of reasons. I base this on the passion and energy YOU bring to the table.
Choose your divorce attorney wisely
According to the Florida Bar Association, there are approximately 93,000 attorneys in Florida. The total number of attorneys who are Florida Board Certified in Marital and Family law (including yours truly) is 262. These are attorneys who are considered experts in divorce and family law.
I wish you well in your endeavors. Hopefully you and your attorney will find ways to
Divorce your loved one with dignity
Namasté
Douglas Kneller, Esq .. Senior Partner .. ifloridadivorce.com, LLC
ifloridadivorce.com, LLC
Douglas Kneller, Florida Board Certificed Marital and Family Law Attorney
Thérèse Misita Truelove, Marital and Family Law Attorney
Office Hours
M-F: 8am-5pm
Call fOR CONSULTATION
Call (386) 257-4699
Office Location
1112 Riverside Drive
Holly Hill, Florida 32117
MAILING ADDRESS
PO Box 15228 .. Daytona Beach, Florida 32115
Fax (386) 257-6516
Contact Douglas Kneller
Text Only (386) 212-2799
Email dkneller@daytonadivorce.com
Office (386) 257-4699
Follow me: ifloridadivorce.blogspot.com
Twitter: dougkneller@daytonadivorce
https://twitter.com/daytonadivorce
Contact Thérèse Misita Truelove
Email tmtruelove@daytonadivorce.com
Office (386) 257-4699
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The mind is everything. What you think you become.
—Buddha
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NOTICE OF INTENT
While our website is intentionally based on solid legal information, it should be regarded as an advertisement for ifloridadivorce.com LLC. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.