Benefits of Divorce Planning
In some situations, your spouse may file for divorce without any prior warnings or indications. If this happens, you should act immediately by contacting an experienced Brandon divorce lawyer who can ensure you properly respond to the divorce petition and take the steps needed to protect your rights.
On the other hand, many people know that divorce is likely in their future, as there may be signs or discussions in the marriage. Whether you know you want to soon file for divorce or expect your spouse to do so, there are many benefits to taking the time to plan for the divorce.
Divorce Planning Checklist
There are many things you can do to ensure the best outcome of your divorce, both financially and personally. The following are some steps you may want to take, though you should always discuss your specific situation with an attorney.
Understand the divorce process and your options. The divorce process is more complicated than many people might imagine, especially if you have children or substantial assets. Make sure you know what to expect during the legal process, as well as the issues that will need to be resolved.
In addition, no two divorces look the same in today’s society. There are many different routes you can take to divorce, including collaborative divorce, mediation, or litigation. Ensure you understand which options may work for you and your spouse.
Take inventory. As soon as the divorce process begins, many spouses may become possessive of certain assets or property or may even try to conceal or waste assets for their own benefit. Understanding the nature of your property can also make it easier when it comes time to file a petition. Take inventory of the following and more:
- Bank accounts
- Investment accounts
- Retirement accounts
- Salaries, commissions, and bonuses earned
- Debts
- Real property
- Personal property
You will also want to collect all important documents and make copies, including insurance policies, deeds and titles, account numbers, and more. Creating a file for your divorce can make it simpler when you meet with your attorney for the first time.
Reign in your spending. It is no secret that divorce can be costly for many spouses, and a divorce can leave you with significantly less income and assets than you are used to having. It is a good idea to limit your spending and start saving money as soon as you believe you may get a divorce to ensure you have a cushion.
Find an attorney. It can take time to find the divorce law firm that is right for you. Start early by getting recommendations from friends, reading reviews online, and interviewing individual attorneys. You want someone you can trust on your side when it is time to take legal steps toward divorce.
Discuss Your Situation with a Divorce Lawyer in Brandon, Florida
Planning ahead can be very beneficial for divorcing spouses and can often improve your situation once the divorce is final. You can schedule a consultation with a Brandon divorce attorney at Carman, Bevington & Finegan, P.A. by calling 813-654-3444 or contacting us online today.