Can You Get Divorced Without a Lawyer? Sure. But Should You?
Getty/FOX - from Deadline
Divorce is never easy, but hiring a lawyer doesn’t mean it has to get messy. In fact, the right legal support can keep matters calm, fair, and on track. Too often, people assume that hiring a lawyer means gearing up for a fight. But the reality is, the right lawyer can help you avoid unnecessary conflict and make sure nothing important gets overlooked during the divorce.
A common misconception is that involving an attorney automatically turns the divorce process into a battle. But without legal guidance, you might not even realize what you don’t know about the process or the law. The role of a good family lawyer isn’t to stir the pot; it’s to protect your rights, explain your options, and help the process go as smoothly as possible.
Even if you can keep the divorce amicable, legal advice can be crucial to protect your future. The goal should be cooperation, not conflict. Take, for example, actress Jennifer Tilly, who famously walked away from her divorce with both a lasting friendship and long-term financial benefits, including royalties from the animated sitcom, The Simpsons.
The truth is, you don’t know what you don’t know. That’s where a lawyer comes in. Even when a couple agrees on the big things, legal and financial nuances can be easy to miss without professional help. A lawyer can help with:
1. Property rights: Knowing what assets you’re entitled to and how they should be divided. This can include real estate, personal property, business interests, and other intangible assets.
2. Spousal support: Whether you qualify for spousal support or may be required to pay.
3. Child custody and support: These issues are often the most emotional for parents. While you know your children best, a lawyer can help you navigate custody and parenting plans in a way that supports long-term co-parenting success.
4. Division of retirement accounts and pensions: Parties may overlook these potentially significant marital assets, especially if the benefits aren’t immediately accessible.
Now, back to Jennifer Tilly. Known for her roles in Bride of Chucky, Bound, and Liar Liar, Tilly recently appeared on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, where she spoke openly about her divorce from Sam Simon, known for co-developing the wildly successful TV show The Simpsons. Despite their split, they remained best friends, and Tilly continues to receive royalties from The Simpsons.
Tilly and Simon were married for seven years and together in a relationship for ten. As part of their divorce settlement, she secured a percentage of his profits from The Simpsons, which has aired for over 30 years and includes more than 750 episodes and a movie that grossed $530 million. Tilly receives at least 25% of the profits Simon earned from each episode and related projects. Their divorce didn’t end their bond; in fact, they remained close until Simon’s death in 2015.
Her story highlights an important point: a well-handled divorce with the right legal advice can lead to both financially and emotionally positive outcomes. Without a lawyer, it’s hard to say whether Tilly would have walked away with the same long-term benefits.
Unfortunately, many women face more significant financial consequences from divorce, especially when their spouse has the higher income or holds investments and other major assets. Tilly’s experience shows how valuable the right attorney can be in protecting your interests.
In the end, divorce doesn’t have to be a bitter process. Whether you and your spouse are separating respectfully or the situation is tense, a lawyer can guide the process and help protect your rights and future. With the right approach, you might even come out of it with your finances and friendship intact.