A Guide to Readying Yourself for the Legal Procedure Ahead
Divorce is a complex task on its own, which is made significantly harder when the emotions and stresses of an ending relationship are considered. If your marriage is nearing an end, take these steps to prepare for the divorce process.
Protect Your Financial Stability
Your financial situation will change when you and your spouse separate. Whether or not you were the primary earner, the new expenses of paying for separate housing or for childcare will necessitate some new budgeting. Consider the costs of the divorce itself and your expected spending as you enter single life, and begin saving for it now. Do not put off planning because you plan to rely on child support or alimony. Neither support nor an award of attorney fees is guaranteed.
Consider if you will require temporary spousal support while you await the finalization of your divorce. If you do, we will help you prepare the necessary forms.
Plan for Career Development
While alimony can help you sustain yourself while you adjust to your new single life, you should begin considering how you will supplement this aid with your own earning. If you took time away from your education or career to take care of your marital home, you should begin to think about whether you will return to school or pursue additional training to achieve the career you want.
Get Your Paperwork in Order
Legal proceedings require completion of several forms and submission of many documents detailing your financial standing, asset ownership, and more. As you prepare for your divorce, start gathering up what will likely be necessary paperwork, including:
- Bank statements
- Credit cart statements
- Investment account statements
- Retirement savings statements
- Loan applications
- Tax returns from the previous three to five years
- W-2 forms from the previous three to five years
- Mortgage statements
- Property tax bills
- Life and health insurance documents
- Property deeds
- Vehicle titles
- Your spouse’s Social Security number
- Your spouse’s driver’s license number
Think of the Children
If you and your spouse have any children, take a moment to consider how they will be impacted by the news and the new reality of your divorce. Think about how you will tell them and support them through the transition. Work with your soon-to-be-ex to plan how to make the process as painless as possible.
Divorce isn’t easy, but with the help of The Law Office of David A. Martin & Associates, it’s made more simple. Let us handle the legal work so you devote your attention to your children and your own needs as you move to the next chapter of your life. Contact us today to get started.
