COUNSELING
Divorce and custody cases are often extremely
emotional. This is especially true when
there has been infidelity or abuse in the relationship. The divorce process is often about control, can
be emotionally taxing, and often takes parties outside of their comfort zone. For these reason, you should consider seeking
counseling before or during the legal process.
Finding the right counselor is
always the tough part. Obviously, you
will first need to consult with your insurance company to find out if such
counseling is covered and if there are any preferred providers. If you do not know where to begin, your
attorney can often recommend qualified counselors. Your social or religious contacts also might
provide leads.
When you choose a counselor, be
picky. Therapists have different styles
and approaches. Inform the counselor at
the first meeting about the goal of the session. Also check your health insurance policy to
see if your plan covers any part of the cost.
You also need to make sure that the therapist is willing to testify if
mental health becomes an issue in the case.
However, you should not approach counseling simply as litigation
strategy or be concerned about what your counselor will say in court. As a general rule communications between a counselor
and patient for therapeutic reasons are considered privileged and not
admissible as evidence.
Counseling often can help you
through this difficult time. If you have
children, in Utah you are required to attend a class called Divorce Orientation
Courts for Parents as soon as possible after the Petition for Divorce has been
filed and prior to finalizing your divorce.
Failure to attend can lead to a charge of contempt and a hefty
fine. For information about this class,
please call (801) 578-3800 or visit http://www.utcourts.gov/specproj/dived.htm.
For further questions, call Attorney
Drew at (801) 871-2240 or visit www.attorneydrew.com.
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