Considering A Divorce? Things To Do Before Filing Papers
Marriage is not only a physical bond — it is also an emotional and financial partnership. Therefore, if you are considering a divorce, understanding the physical, emotional, and financial ramifications of divorce is key. Here you will learn a few important steps to take before seeing an attorney to initiate a divorce.
Meet with Counselors
First of all, it is important to consider marriage counseling before you file divorce papers. In many cases, arguments and differences between you and your spouse can be resolved with the help of a third-party individual, such as a counselor.
Remember that once divorce papers are filed, your relationship with your spouse will change dramatically. By visiting a counselor before making any decision to file divorce papers, you are attempting to correct marital issues to hopefully avoid the divorce in the first place.
Organize Finances
If you have decided that your situation with your spouse cannot be resolved and that you want to file for divorce, you will first need to organize your finances. Make copies of all bank and income statements. It is also helpful to make copies of your most recent tax filings and any statements that you and your spouse share.
Having copies of these documents will be key to determining child and spousal support amounts. Also, if you and your spouse are divorcing on bad terms, having access to these financial documents may not be simple once you file divorce papers, so make sure you have copies in advance.
Never attempt to hide any financial information from your attorney or your spouse, since this could become a problem if your divorce goes to trial.
Consult an Attorney
If you believe divorce is the right option even after marriage counseling and thoughtful consideration, schedule an appointment with an attorney. Your attorney will guide you through the process of planning and filing the divorce papers. If you and your spouse are in agreement over the divorce, an attorney can work with you both. Or, depending on the situation, another attorney can be hired by your spouse.
The attorney will ask you many personal questions, so be prepared. The attorney will want to know why you want to divorce your spouse and what your plans are in terms of residency, support, and custody, if you and your spouse share children.
Divorce is not an easy or pleasant process, but you can reduce the stress of dissolving your marriage. Contact a divorce lawyer like Winstein, Kavensky & Cunningham, LLC. for help.