Divorce is always a complex, emotionally charged process that can disrupt your life in numerous ways, but with proper preparation, it can be a smoother experience. If you’re on the fence about hunting for a “divorce lawyer near me” in Jamaica, NY or still at the consideration stage of divorce, read on to learn some tips about how to prepare for the fastest and best resolution.
Ask a Divorce Lawyer Near Me: 5 Tips for Preparing for a Divorce
1. Seek Legal Counsel Early
A lawyer with expertise in New York family law will explain all your legal rights, the different paths to divorce (such as mediation or litigation) and which one is most likely to work best for you, and the potential outcomes specific to your situation.
Don’t underestimate the value of legal advice as you plan for a complex legal procedure like divorce: getting a lawyer involved from the start can make the whole thing go much more smoothly.
2. Organize Your Information and Documents
Gathering and organizing your financial and personal documents will make things go faster. Here’s a breakdown of just some of what you should compile:
- Financial Documentation: Tax returns, bank statements, investment accounts, retirement account statements, pay stubs, business records, loan documents, and credit card statements.
- Property Records: Deeds, mortgages, vehicle titles, insurance policies for significant assets, and appraisals for valuable property.
- Other Important Documents: Wills, trusts, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, and documents outlining separate property (like inheritances or gifts).
3. Consider Your Goals and Priorities
Before starting, define what you hope to achieve. Consider things like child custody and visitation. How would you like to structure custody of your children? Are you seeking primary physical custody, or do you prefer a joint custody arrangement? Talk to your lawyer about what to expect.
Do you believe you are entitled to receive spousal support, or are you concerned about having to pay alimony? Again, if you have any question, talk to your lawyer immediately. You want to be able to plan out your future, and that starts with getting some idea of your financial situation.
4. Safeguard Separate Property
In New York, “separate property” generally refers to assets you acquired before the marriage or which were given to you, and you alone, as inheritance and gifts. It’s crucial to preserve these as non-marital assets, so ensure there is clear documentation to support their separate status so they won’t be mixed with marital property that’s subject to division.
5. Consider Your Living Arrangements
Think about where you want to live after the divorce before you even start the process. Moving out prematurely could cause complications, so it’s best to consult your attorney about this. They can advise you on the potential impact of leaving the marital home. If you’re concerned about your safety, create a plan with legal help and talk to your lawyer about whether to seek a restraining order or other legal protection.
These are just a few things you can do to prepare yourself for divorce. To learn more and get experienced help, contact Claudio & Associates, Attorneys at Law in Jamaica, the five boroughs, Westchester, and Newburgh, NY.
Connect with us
Archives
Categories
Follow Us