When it comes to divorce the reality is that it does not matter who filed it will be an incredibly difficult time in your life. It is important that, as a woman, that you get yourself set financially. If you file, if he files it is all the same, you need to get yourself in a position that you will be able to support yourself and your children with or without the help of your ex. When it comes to the dos and don’ts of finances in divorce there are a few tips to take into consideration either before you file for divorce or right away after he has filed.
First things first, head to the bank and separate all of your joint bank accounts. When separating accounts it is best to start fresh at a new bank for your personal accounts. This is important as it protects you and keeps your accounts protected. When separating be careful as greed often sets in along with the urge to wipe out all financial assets. This is easily avoided by creating your own personal account. Even in the most amicable of divorces financial issues arise. Do not assume because you are getting along for the moment and acting like mature adults that your divorce will continue down the same path.
The next financial aspect that needs to be looked after is joint credit cards. It is important to call creditors where joint accounts exist and explain that you are going through the divorce process. You will want to cancel all joint accounts while opening one in your own name. Don’t wait on this. As your mate is beginning a new life it may seem reasonable to them to charge their expenses during the divorce. If this occurs you are on the hook for at least half of this joint debt.
It is a good idea to start keeping track of any and all money that is being spent in a financial journal. If you have kept track in writing and have a good solid record of receipts it gives you credit when explaining your living expenses during the divorce. This gives your attorney the edge when discussing how joint money has been spent throughout the process and helps to make sure remaining funds are divided fairly.
When you are certain a separation and divorce is inevitable start writing down a list of questions you need addressed. As it is when you go to visit the doctor, your brain goes stale when it comes time to get answers to the thousands of questions you have. Keeping track along the way will help ensure everything is covered and addressed with your divorce attorney.
When looking to find a divorce attorney that specializes in women’s needs in divorce it is important that you look at their record in court and mediation. As with any professional services that are sought feel free to ask for referrals. Attorney consultations are often free. Meet with several attorneys that specialize in women going through the divorce and get a feel for how each will represent your needs throughout the divorce. You will be working one on one with this person to achieve a post divorce life so be sure you are comfortable discussing everything with this person. Unfortunately, your entire life is on display when going through a divorce.
Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.