Divorce in Ohio is an emotional and challenging time for all involved parties. The decision to seek legal representation might be upsetting, yet it becomes necessary due to various circumstances. The following may help you know when to seek legal help and how it can...
Family Law
Bankruptcy Law
Criminal Defense
Personal Injury
Probate
Amy M. Levine
View Profile
Our Latest Blog Posts
How will an OVI affect your college education?
Operating a vehicle while impaired is a criminal act that has far-reaching consequences. Not only are you likely to face license suspension and fines, but your college career might be at risk as well. Building a strong legal defense and presenting your case...
Common mistakes that can jeopardize a car accident claim
Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic and stressful experience. In the aftermath of an accident, it's important to take the necessary steps to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. However, many people make...
Understanding undue influence and proving a will
Administering an estate does not always go smoothly. Unfortunately, not everyone acts in good faith when someone with substantial assets dies. Malicious individuals might try to take advantage of a sick or elderly person to inherit their wealth. Understanding the...
Effective ways to challenge breath test results in Ohio
Breath tests are meant to be an accurate way of determining a person's blood alcohol content (BAC). However, there are many factors that can affect the accuracy of breath tests. That means that if you're arrested for DUI, you may be able to challenge the test results....
Visit Our Blog
5 Steps To Prepare For Divorce
Contact Us For A
Free Consultation
Bold labels are required.
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
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
Why it’s never too early to see a divorce lawyer
Divorce in Ohio is an emotional and challenging time for all involved parties. The decision to seek legal representation might be upsetting, yet it becomes necessary due to various circumstances. The following may help you know when to seek legal help and how it can...
How will an OVI affect your college education?
Operating a vehicle while impaired is a criminal act that has far-reaching consequences. Not only are you likely to face license suspension and fines, but your college career might be at risk as well. Building a strong legal defense and presenting your case...
Common mistakes that can jeopardize a car accident claim
Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic and stressful experience. In the aftermath of an accident, it's important to take the necessary steps to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. However, many people make...
Understanding undue influence and proving a will
Administering an estate does not always go smoothly. Unfortunately, not everyone acts in good faith when someone with substantial assets dies. Malicious individuals might try to take advantage of a sick or elderly person to inherit their wealth. Understanding the...
Effective ways to challenge breath test results in Ohio
Breath tests are meant to be an accurate way of determining a person's blood alcohol content (BAC). However, there are many factors that can affect the accuracy of breath tests. That means that if you're arrested for DUI, you may be able to challenge the test results....
Visit Our Blog