Legal Question in Family Law in West Virginia
Divorce Cost
I want to file for divorce. But I'm clueless as to where to start? How much does all this cost? We have a 17 year old daughter still at home , does there need to be a custody order? We don't own any property together, I have aloan for a car that is in my name.Does he have rights to my car? My husabnd a terrible drinking promblem ,I just want out.Please any information will be much appreciated.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Divorce Cost
You can do this yourself if you need to. It sounds like you don't have any real property to divide, so if you plan it right [read: get a lawyer to help at least with the planning], you can time the filing so that your child will be 18 by the time the divorce is final.
You can also ask the court for custody, on the understanding that by the time the judgment is entered, it won't be an issue.
LOTS of books on divorce planning. A few hours at the bookstore should alleviate a lot of your stress,--Nolo Books, for example, have wonderful guides on divorce. Use those to educate yourself, so that when you deal with counsel, you'll know what lies ahead.
Further, most state bars publish guides to divorce, so that's another source of information. If you are indigent, legal aid providers an often help walk you through the process as well.