Experiencing a divorce can be challenging and emotionally exhausting for any couple, especially as parents. In spite of the emotional turmoil, it is crucial for parents to maintain a healthy relationship for the sake of their children. This is where the concept of...
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The benefits of adopting your stepchild
Many Ohio residents choose to adopt to start or expand their family. If you have gotten married and your spouse has a child from a previous relationship, you might consider adopting your stepchild. These are some benefits of stepparent adoption. Adopting your...
Can you refuse visitation if the co-parent arrives intoxicated?
Navigating a shared custody plan with a co-parent who struggles with substance abuse poses unique challenges. For example, how do you respond when they arrive to pick up the children for their parenting time but you can tell that they have been drinking? There are...
3 tips for summer vacation and shared custody
Now that spring has arrived, planning for a fun summer vacation starts. If you have shared custody of your children, planning ahead holds even more importance. To help your children have a positive memorable summer, consider these three tips. 1. Check your parenting...
How to prepare for a divorce
Divorce can be a scary prospect for Ohio residents. However, preparation can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty that come with it. Taking the right steps in preparing for divorce will get you through this difficult time. Understanding the law The first...
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5 Steps To Prepare For Divorce
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What should you do when preparing for divorce? Every case is unique, but there are several steps everyone should consider:
1. Speak to an attorney. Whichever spouse contacts a lawyer first will have a distinct advantage in early divorce proceedings. Whether you are considering filing for divorce or your spouse has recently demanded a divorce, an attorney can offer invaluable advice. Also, consider speaking with a counselor or trusted friend if your most pressing issues are emotional ones.
2. Gather your financial records. The importance of controlling your financial information cannot be overstated. Collect your income tax returns, current year-end brokerage statements, a recent pay statement, an employee benefits summary and a joint financial statement, if possible. If you cannot get copies of these records, it is possible to secure them during the discovery process — but the sooner you and your attorney have them the better.
3. Begin saving money. In Franklin County and the surrounding communities, it can take up to eight weeks to get a court order for alimony and child support. If you are not the primary breadwinner in the marriage, it can be difficult to make ends meet while waiting for the court to order the support you need. Tracking your expenses and saving money before filing for divorce can give you financial security and peace of mind.
4. Open new accounts in your name only. Once divorce proceedings begin, there can be disputes over joint assets, including checking and savings accounts. Your attorney may instruct you to withdraw money from shared accounts, and you will need somewhere to put it. As your living situation changes, you may need access to your money on short notice.
5. Update your estate plan. If you are considering divorce, you likely do not want your spouse collecting on your will or life insurance policy. Our lawyers are experienced in both family law and estate planning, which means we can help you update the necessary documents and protect your financial future.
Contact Amy M. Levine & Associates in Columbus
For effective advice and counsel before and during divorce, we encourage you to contact us for a consultation. Please call our Columbus, Ohio, office at 614-360-2942.
Amy M. Levine
View Profile
Our Latest Blog Posts
Creating a strong co-parenting relationship during a divorce
Experiencing a divorce can be challenging and emotionally exhausting for any couple, especially as parents. In spite of the emotional turmoil, it is crucial for parents to maintain a healthy relationship for the sake of their children. This is where the concept of...
The benefits of adopting your stepchild
Many Ohio residents choose to adopt to start or expand their family. If you have gotten married and your spouse has a child from a previous relationship, you might consider adopting your stepchild. These are some benefits of stepparent adoption. Adopting your...
Can you refuse visitation if the co-parent arrives intoxicated?
Navigating a shared custody plan with a co-parent who struggles with substance abuse poses unique challenges. For example, how do you respond when they arrive to pick up the children for their parenting time but you can tell that they have been drinking? There are...
3 tips for summer vacation and shared custody
Now that spring has arrived, planning for a fun summer vacation starts. If you have shared custody of your children, planning ahead holds even more importance. To help your children have a positive memorable summer, consider these three tips. 1. Check your parenting...
How to prepare for a divorce
Divorce can be a scary prospect for Ohio residents. However, preparation can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty that come with it. Taking the right steps in preparing for divorce will get you through this difficult time. Understanding the law The first...
Visit Our Blog