It really is an art as most battles of any type of litigation are won or lost in the beginning stages. Divorce can be an emotionally and financially devastating process if you are not prepared. Here are a few things you should do before filing:
- Get to know the divorce laws of your state. All it takes is a simple google search and maybe 15 minutes of research to get a basic idea. State laws can be so different you’ll be glad you did!
- Get your paperwork prepared: Tax returns. You’re going to need them for the last 3-5 years to make sure they are readily available. Bank accounts are also important, joint and individual so make sure you have printouts. Also gather your credit card statements, a handful of pay stubs or other proof of monthly income. It’s also a good idea to start creating a list of your marital assets.
And finally:
3. Do your homework: Do your research and make sure you hire a reasonable, experienced attorney. Picking the first name that comes up on google is not always the way to go, nor is finding the cheapest lawyer. Many lawyers charge more per hour because they use their time more efficiently and can get the same, if not more, done in that hour than their cheaper counterparts. Go to a potential lawyer’s website and Avvo reviews to see if they have experience in family law and have good reviews before you book your consultation.
Following these steps will make for a much smoother (and many times cheaper and shorter!) divorce process. Contact our office to schedule a divorce strategy session as soon as possible. You have nothing to lose because whether you decided not to go forward with your divorce, go another route, or proceed with a different attorney, you will have gained valued knowledge to assist going forward.
This post was written by Brandi Brook