Divorce 101: How To Prepare For A Divorce

Law Blog

You spend years planning the perfect wedding. You make sure every last detail is perfect for your big day. Everyone expects to live happily ever after, but the sad truth is that most marriages will end in divorce. If you are considering divorce or have been served divorce papers, you need to start planning right away. A divorce doesn't require the same level of planning as a wedding, but there are still multiple things that need to be done in order to protect yourself in court. This guide discusses the steps you should take when facing divorce.

Preparing for Divorce

If you know your marriage is ending, you need to complete some vital steps. One of the first things you need to do is gather important documents. These include:

  • Birth certificates for you and children

  • Deeds

  • Paystubs

  • Insurance

  • Loans

  • Social Security cards

  • Driver's license or identification cards

  • Medical records

Any of the above may be needed in court, so it is necessary to have the original or a copy of each one. Anything showing what assets you and your spouse own will be required. Place the documents in a locked box where your spouse cannot find it. Another thing you need to do is set up your own bank account. Filter money into the account so you have decent savings when you are single. This is especially helpful if you will have children and need money for their expenses.

Finding a Lawyer

The next thing on your list is to find a family law lawyer, like those at Johnson/Turner Legal. They specialize in custody and divorce. If you are low-income, you may qualify for a free lawyer through the court system. The waiting list may be pretty lengthy, though, so make sure you call and inquire about it as soon as possible. If you don't qualify, you need to for search for local lawyers and find the right one. Try looking through online reviews to see how good they are before you retain one. You can also schedule consultations with various lawyers. A consultation is a limited meeting with a lawyer that will give you an idea of what type of lawyer they are. If you wish to retain them, you can discuss legal fees. Every lawyer charges differently. It's okay to "shop" around to find the best for you.

Conclusion

Leaving a marriage is never easy. You may find yourself extremely angry or depressed. Counseling for you and your kids can be extremely beneficial to dealing with your feelings.

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30 July 2018

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