There are four reasons an Ohio judge will consider as grounds for invalidating a person's will. They include fraud, undue influence on the testator, and a lack of understanding on the part of the testator. Finally, if a will is not structured properly under state law,...
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When might a spouse speak to a divorce attorney?
A marriage could become intolerable for both spouses, but that doesn't mean both partners rush to get a divorce. Those unable to reconcile problems in the marriage may eventually seek to dissolve the union. Since divorce requires completing a legal process under Ohio...
How probate works in Ohio
The death of a loved one brings challenging times and significant responsibilities for the family members left behind. If you have recently lost someone, you may have numerous questions about the probate process and what to expect. The details below may help you...
Tips for raising a child with a former spouse
In most cases, Ohio law will allow both parents to have relationships with their children after a divorce. Therefore, it's likely that you will interact with your former partner on a regular basis even after dissolving your marriage to that person. Fortunately, there...
What happens right after filing for personal bankruptcy?
Many people who are considering filing for bankruptcy in Ohio have read about what bankruptcy can do for them in the long term. After completing the whole bankruptcy process, most of your debts will probably be wiped clean, and you can then start the process of...
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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
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
What are the valid reasons to contest a will?
There are four reasons an Ohio judge will consider as grounds for invalidating a person's will. They include fraud, undue influence on the testator, and a lack of understanding on the part of the testator. Finally, if a will is not structured properly under state law,...
When might a spouse speak to a divorce attorney?
A marriage could become intolerable for both spouses, but that doesn't mean both partners rush to get a divorce. Those unable to reconcile problems in the marriage may eventually seek to dissolve the union. Since divorce requires completing a legal process under Ohio...
How probate works in Ohio
The death of a loved one brings challenging times and significant responsibilities for the family members left behind. If you have recently lost someone, you may have numerous questions about the probate process and what to expect. The details below may help you...
Tips for raising a child with a former spouse
In most cases, Ohio law will allow both parents to have relationships with their children after a divorce. Therefore, it's likely that you will interact with your former partner on a regular basis even after dissolving your marriage to that person. Fortunately, there...
What happens right after filing for personal bankruptcy?
Many people who are considering filing for bankruptcy in Ohio have read about what bankruptcy can do for them in the long term. After completing the whole bankruptcy process, most of your debts will probably be wiped clean, and you can then start the process of...
Visit Our Blog