Function

A divorce lawyer's job is to ensure that his client receives a fair settlement at the end of the divorce. To achieve this, she negotiates with the attorney of the other spouse and sometimes argues her client's case in a court of law.

Types of Issues

Divorce lawyers handle issues such as alimony and dividing property and other assets as well as debts. Lawyers also handle child custody and child support agreements. Some people visit divorce lawyers before getting married to draw up a document known as a prenuptial agreement that outlines ahead of time who will receive what in the event of a divorce.

Features

Even if there is no argument between the couple about who receives what, divorce lawyers are needed to produce the necessary legal documents for the process, which are presented to the judges who legally dissolve the marriage.

Requirements

Divorce lawyers attend three years of law school after receiving a bachelor's degree, and spend the second half of their time in school studying divorce or matrimonial law. After graduation, divorce lawyers take the bar exam in order to become licensed to practice law in their respective states.

Compensation

In November 2009, the average annual salary for a divorce lawyer was $98,000, according to Indeed.com.

Source:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Lawyers

Indeed.com: Divorce Laywer Salaries

Utah State Courts: Getting Divorced