Thinking of Mentioning the Word Divorce? Do This First
Understandably, deciding to divorce your spouse or separate from your domestic partner is an emotionally charged situation. You may feel angry, hurt and resentful. You may want to confront your spouse or partner with your decision as quickly as possible, so that you can get on with your life.
Before you mention the word “divorce,” however, be sure to do these things first:
Talk with a divorce attorney – A divorce attorney will be able to help you understand your legal situation and what you will likely need to split financially with your spouse or partner. If you have children, a divorce attorney can also explain the possibilities for you regarding child custody, visitation, child support and spousal support.
First, write down all the questions you want to ask your attorney – Often, the time you have with your legal team is limited, and legal fees can add up. Be sure to prepare all the questions you have in advance.
Know your numbers – Understand your current financial picture by gathering tax returns, financial statements, Social Security statements and any documents related to the assets you own and the debts you owe, especially what you own together with your spouse or partner. Make copies of important documents and keep them in a secure place. You will need them to move forward with your divorce.
Develop a budget – Look at your current sources of spending including: credit cards, debit cards, personal checks and cash. Make sure you understand what you are likely to need on a monthly basis to be able to live on your own.
Talk with a financial advisor – By reviewing your current financial picture, a financial advisor can help you asses how much you will be able to spend and what options you have for funding your future.
Open a bank account and credit card in your own name, if you don’t already have one. Be sure to keep meticulous records, so that you can account for all spending. You don’t want to do anything that may have an adverse impact on your divorce case.
Obtain a copy of your credit report – You will want to know where your credit standing is as of today. Your credit is critical for your future financial independence.
Decide where you are likely to live – Consider whether you will rent or purchase a condo or home. Survey real estate listings to understand what you will need to pay to live in the area that you desire.
Keep your email, online documents and online accounts secure – Change your passwords to something that your spouse or children won’t be able to guess.
Contact Me, If I Can Be of Assistance
If you live in the Marin or San Francisco Bay Area, are considering divorce, and would like to speak with an experienced divorce attorney, please contact my office for a consultation.
Warren Major LLP are Marin County CA family law attorneys specializing in divorce, child custody and support, marital contracts and other family law issues.
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