Do I need a lawyer to represent me if I separate from my spouse?

Question

Do I need a lawyer to represent me if I separate from my spouse?

Answer

There is no legal requirement that a separating spouse must retain a lawyer to represent them either in negotiations or in Court.  In fact, in recent years there has been an increasing number of separated spouses representing themselves in the negotiation of Separation Agreements and in contested matters in Family Court.

In very simple cases, where there are no children or significant financial issues involved it may be feasible for a person to…