Divorce is a life-changing event that requires preparation so that you can best deal with what lies ahead. There are many different areas of your life that a divorce will impact which is why you want to consider several factors. The Law Offices of William Strachan is committed to making sure that all clients are as prepared as possible for their divorce.
What You Should Think About When Preparing for Divorce
Determine What Type of Divorce You Will File For
Decide what type of divorce is right for your situation. If no one has done anything wrong, filing for a no-fault divorce may be in your best interest. With a no-fault divorce, the separation is usually blamed on irreconcilable differences. When you file for an at-fault divorce, it implies that someone did something wrong.
Other couples choose to file an uncontested divorce. This type of divorce can help to save you money and time since there will likely be fewer legal fees. In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree to all of the terms of the separation. This includes child custody, child support, and the division of assets. There are no disputes that the courts need to resolve.
2. Consider If You Will Hire a Lawyer
While it is not legally mandatory that you need to hire a lawyer when you file for divorce, doing so can be in your best interest. A divorce lawyer can explain all facets of the divorce to you, review documents, prepare paperwork, and ensure that you get the best settlement possible. Hiring a divorce lawyer will give you someone who can answer questions and prevent you from being taken advantage of during the divorce process. This is especially important if the divorce is contentious. You will certainly want someone on your side to fight for your rights and give you legal advice.
3. Gather Important Financial Documents
Your financial documents are going to play an important role in your divorce. You can start gathering your financial documents by compiling a list of your joining assets. This includes bank accounts, credit cards, vehicles, property, and anything else you think could be involved in your divorce proceedings. Gathering as much information as you can ahead of time will make the process go smoother.
You also want information on retirement accounts that were accrued during the marriage as well as joint debts such as student loans, mortgages, and vehicle loans. Paycheck information is also helpful as well as copies of your recent joint tax returns.
One item that many people forget is the contents of any safe deposit boxes. Make a list of what’s inside as well as who owns the box and where it is located.
4. Separate Your Life
Take steps to separate your life such as opening up your own bank account. Be sure to check state law to see if you should wait until you’re formally separated to do so. Once you have the green light, a private bank account will help you better keep track of your finances. You can then have direct deposits authorized and any payments that need to be made.
As you prepare for your divorce, you also want to protect your private information. Change your passwords, especially if your spouse has access to your social media accounts. Some people also set up a P.O. box where they can receive mail pertaining to the divorce. This will allow you to receive these mailings without your spouse having access to them at your home address.
5. Prioritize What You Want in Your Divorce
Everyone has different priorities in a divorce. Some people want the family home, while others may want cars or other assets. Think about what matters most to you so that you can have a clear idea when your divorce negotiations begin. Make a list of priorities, understanding that you likely won’t get everything you want. By having a list of priorities, you can see what you may end up with once the divorce is finalized.
As you prioritize what you want in the divorce, it’s a good idea to have photos of items that are of value to you. This can include jewelry, family heirlooms, or other items that are your property. You don’t want your spouse to walk away with them or claim that they own them.
6. Make Plans for Children
If children are a part of the divorce equation, you want to think about how it will affect them. Start thinking about where you would like them to live and how custody would work. Visitation schedules, child support, and who will be making decisions for the children are all issues that the court will work out. Having some type of idea of what you would like to see happen can be a good place to start.
Let the Offices of William Strachan Help with Your Divorce
The Law Offices of William Strachan is here to help you prepare for your divorce, answer your questions, and navigate every step of the way. Our team is here to help you receive a fair settlement. Contact us today at 714-841-1931 or reach out to us online to schedule a free consultation. We represent clients in Santa Ana, Anaheim, Los Angeles, and Orange County, California.
