While most people understand that an attorney is the best way to go, sometimes there are reasons that you can't employ the services of one. Perhaps you can't afford to pay an attorney and need to decide whether you can just represent yourself. If you're trying to make your decision about representing yourself or hiring an attorney, use the tips and suggestions below to help you decide.

What Kind of Cases Are Best to Represent Yourself In?

There are a few different cases that don't actually require an attorney. For instance, if you and your spouse were only married for a short time and you both have comparable salaries. Also, it's best if the two of you have accumulated little during your marriage, or you've already decided who gets to keep what. On top of this, it's even better if the two of you have no children together or have absolutely no problem with the other parent staying involved in the child's life. Often times this sort of situation can be taken care of quickly as there will be a limited amount of conflict or disputes.

When Is It a Bad Idea to Represent Yourself?

The general rule with this is if you and your spouse will have conflicts or disputes, you will probably need an attorney. If you have been married for a while, accumulated many things during the course of your marriage or you have children and will not agree on child custody matters, you will definitely need an attorney. You should also get one if one of you has worked during the marriage while the other one stayed at home to take care of the children, go to school, etc. The attorney helps to fight for your rights and without one, you may not be able to prove your case well enough to receive your fair share.

If there have been any other problems, such as abandonment, child abuse or neglect, refusal to help monetarily or similar problems, you will also need to hire an attorney. It's an old saying that the man who represents himself has a fool for a client. This can be true in cases where disputes will need to be solved, compensation will need to be pursued and child custody will need to be determined. In these cases, try your hardest to obtain a lawyer.

What to Do If You Can't Afford a Lawyer

Ask your court clerk for information on lawyers who operate pro-bono. He or she may be able to provide you with further resources on how to obtain a lawyer even when you can't afford to pay. There are other organizations that help individuals obtain a lawyer too, such as Legal Aid. Find this organization or similar ones in your state and call them. They may be able to help you get a lawyer to represent you in your divorce.

Use the tips and tricks above to help you determine whether you should represent yourself or find a way to get an attorney.