What Should You Ask For In A Divorce?
Getting a divorce is difficult, but you may also feel at an impasse with more than your feelings. For example, you might be unsure what to do legally in the divorce. Do you need a divorce attorney? Do you know what you want to take with you when you move out? And perhaps most importantly, what do you legally get to keep after the divorce?
Property division is difficult in a divorce. In fact, it is often the most contentious issue in the divorce proceedings. How do you divide a home? Property? Cars? Stock options? The answers are not always clear-cut.
Understand Your Property
The property you share with your spouse has value. If you don't understand the value of all the property you own, you need to sit down and figure it out. You also need to figure out the value of the debt you owe in the marriage. You cannot determine what you need or deserve without understanding what is available.
You also need to present your attorney with a list of all the property owned in the marriage. Financial information about bank accounts, properties, vehicles, retirement accounts, trusts, and stocks is crucial for your case.
Understand the Finances
You also need to have a solid figure associated with your spouse's earnings and expenses in addition to your own earnings and expenses. You can look at monthly bills and paychecks to show your attorney exactly what is at stake.
It is also helpful to understand your future living expenses. What does housing cost? How much will you spend in childcare? What are the necessary healthcare and education costs? This will help you determine your potential spousal support or child support.
Consider Collaborative Divorce
You may not receive everything you ask for in the divorce, but if you are willing to compromise, you can consider collaborative divorce. You and your spouse may be able to work together to create a settlement that pleases both of you and ensures your children are provided for. Many people like this option because they don't have to fight about the items they want to take in the divorce. Both parties can come to an agreement. For more information, talk to a collaborative divorce attorney.
Hire an Attorney
Even if you are not sure exactly what you want to ask for the divorce, it is critical that you hire a divorce attorney. An attorney will help you establish some boundaries and help you determine your rights during the divorce.
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