If you are tensely awaiting a looming divorce, taking appropriate steps may help to put yourself in the best position possible. At the start of a divorce, legal requirements kick in. However, if you have some advance notice that a divorce might be coming down the pike, pre-divorce planning might give you a head start. If you’re on the verge of a divorce, consider the information in this post.
Establishing Precedent for Parenting
One of the hardest things we see in a divorce is the situation where one parent is the breadwinner and one parent does most of the parenting. If this is the case, it may be difficult to make a reasonable argument for 50/50 parenting time. As one parent has traditionally shouldered the majority of the parenting responsibility, courts generally favor this person when it comes to allocating parenting time and decision-making. This frequently leaves the other person feeling left out. If you are the less-involved parent and you predict a divorce in your future, you may want to make some changes.
What to Do With Selling Items?
There are some items you and your spouse may want to sell, such as an extra vehicle or maybe the family home. However, it’s much harder to dispose of assets once a divorce is filed. Once a petition for dissolution of marriage is filed, an automatic temporary injunction is entered. That prevents the parties from disposing of assets. Because violating a temporary injunction can get you in a whole heap of trouble, you should consult with an attorney. That lawyer can give you options for getting rid of assets before you begin a divorce.
Hire an Attorney or Go it Alone?
Obtaining a divorce can be a lengthy ordeal, with a considerable price tag. While it may seem like a good idea to pursue a divorce on your own, it can be risky because of the likelihood of error or omission. Many of our clients hired someone else first. By the time the client comes to us their case is a mess. The lesson here is simple: it is often less costly to seek legal counsel the first time around than it is to pay an attorney for clean-up after the fact.
Final Thoughts
Divorce is a difficult time. If you’re aware that a divorce might soon become a reality, you should talk with a lawyer early. Getting the assistance of an attorney can be extremely beneficial in helping you to put your best foot forward. Modern Family Law is proud to offer free consultations with our team of family law attorneys. Our attorneys dedicate their practice exclusively to family law and domestic relations. So get in touch with us today for a free consultation.
