When a person is subject to a police investigation in Ohio and the officers want to conduct a search, it can be difficult to know if they need a warrant. In recent years, these types of incidents have been a subject for debate. Understanding the limits under which...
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Amy M. Levine
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Courts may be wise to reconsider their stance on police dogs
Ohio residents have likely read media stories about large drug seizures being made during vehicle stops after police dogs were alerted to the scent of narcotics, but this kind of reporting may have given law enforcement canines a reputation for reliability that they...
How vehicle accident fault could impact insurance claims
Every state has a law that applies when auto accidents occur, and especially when cases go to court. While most motor vehicle accidents in Ohio with obvious fault evidence are settled beforehand, this is not true in all cases. Insurance companies and claimants often...
Common things couples might overlook during their divorce
A divorcing couple often faces emotional and financial turmoil during the process. Dividing a single household into two futures, even if it is the best decision for both spouses, can cause significant stress and worry. Unfortunately, many couples become overwhelmed...
How to prepare financially for a divorce
Ohio is an equitable property division state, which means that you might be entitled to a majority share of a marital estate in a final divorce settlement. However, even if you are expecting to receive valuable assets as part of such a settlement, you'll still need to...
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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
Ruling limits when police can conduct searches without a warrant
When a person is subject to a police investigation in Ohio and the officers want to conduct a search, it can be difficult to know if they need a warrant. In recent years, these types of incidents have been a subject for debate. Understanding the limits under which...
Courts may be wise to reconsider their stance on police dogs
Ohio residents have likely read media stories about large drug seizures being made during vehicle stops after police dogs were alerted to the scent of narcotics, but this kind of reporting may have given law enforcement canines a reputation for reliability that they...
How vehicle accident fault could impact insurance claims
Every state has a law that applies when auto accidents occur, and especially when cases go to court. While most motor vehicle accidents in Ohio with obvious fault evidence are settled beforehand, this is not true in all cases. Insurance companies and claimants often...
Common things couples might overlook during their divorce
A divorcing couple often faces emotional and financial turmoil during the process. Dividing a single household into two futures, even if it is the best decision for both spouses, can cause significant stress and worry. Unfortunately, many couples become overwhelmed...
How to prepare financially for a divorce
Ohio is an equitable property division state, which means that you might be entitled to a majority share of a marital estate in a final divorce settlement. However, even if you are expecting to receive valuable assets as part of such a settlement, you'll still need to...
Visit Our Blog