Lawyer or No Lawyer: How to Make the Right Choice for Your Divorce
There isn’t one right answer. The key is understanding what each path really means for your time, emotions, and credibility.
One of the first questions people ask me is, “Do I really need a lawyer for my divorce?”
After more than 30 years in Massachusetts family courtrooms, my answer is always: It depends—on what you need most.
For some, having a lawyer brings relief and structure. For others, handling parts of the process themselves creates empowerment and control.
What matters most is clarity—knowing the strengths and limits of each approach before you decide.
Choosing Between Legal Representation and Self-Representation
Hiring a lawyer can help you navigate the complexity of the court system, interpret legal procedures, and manage the emotional intensity that often clouds judgment.
But it also comes with a cost — financial and emotional — that may not be right for everyone at every stage.
Representing yourself (known as pro se representation) means you retain control over your timeline and your decisions, but it also means you must carry the responsibility for understanding legal standards, deadlines, and courtroom expectations.
“Whether you work with a lawyer or not, you are still the one who has to live with the outcomes. The goal isn’t to avoid help—it’s to make choices that keep you grounded, informed, and prepared.”
How Coaching Bridges the Gap
Divorce coaching offers a third path between “lawyer” and “no lawyer.”
It gives you a space to think clearly, understand what’s realistic, and prepare for discussions with your attorney—or with the court—without panic or confusion.
Tracy combines her legal experience and emotional intelligence to help clients:
Organize facts and documents before meetings or hearings
Communicate effectively with or without legal counsel
Identify when professional legal advice is necessary
Manage emotional triggers that can derail credibility or decision-making
Get the Clarity You Need
If you’re unsure whether to hire a lawyer—or how to proceed without one—start with a conversation. Book a one-on-one divorce coaching session to explore your situation, weigh your options, and plan your next steps with calm confidence.
Monday, October 28, 2025
Live Online Webinar (link provided after registration)
8:00 PM (Eastern Time)
Hosted by Tracy D. Galloway, Esq., M.A.
Meet Your Coach
Tracy Galloway has been a member of the bar since 1992, first as a child welfare attorney, then as a divorce attorney. She expanded into consulting in 2014, and into online coaching in 2025. She currently lives in Wrentham, MA.
