Preparing for Your Divorce
If you are seriously considering a divorce, it is important that you are prepared as best you can be both financially and emotionally. Divorcing is a life-changing process, and it is important for you and your children that you are ready and able to make the transition as smoothly as possible. Let’s take a look at some important things to consider and plan for before you begin filing for divorce.
Divorce law differs from state to state
The divorce settlement that your best friend living in California got may not be possible in New Jersey. Divorce law differs from state to state, so it is important that you do not base your expectations on what out of state friends and family may have told you about their own divorce settlements.
Gather as much financial information as you can
Where previously you may have shared financial responsibilities with your spouse, as a single adult you will need to manage them yourself. It is important that you have a clear understanding of exactly how much you are spending, and on what. This will prove especially true if you decide to pursue a child support or alimony claim. Knowing how much money you and possibly your children need in order to pay for housing, food, and other necessities is extremely important.
Speak with a Financial Planner
To further our previous point, it is important that you speak with a professional financial planner to get a better understanding of your post-divorce finances. They may be able to help you decide whether or not you should move, how much you may wish to ask for from a child support or alimony settlement, and be able to advise you on a number of other important financial issues.
Look for a Family Law Attorney
Going through a divorce is a very emotional and personal experience. When looking for an attorney, you want to find someone you can trust, and whom you feel comfortable with. The first lawyer you meet with may not meet these requirements, or even if they do, you probably want to consider exploring your options before making a decision. You wouldn’t buy the first house you see before at least looking around, the same is true of your divorce attorney.
Manage your expectations
No one is ever completely happy with their divorce settlement. Compromises will need to be made, especially when it comes to your children. Family courts want children to be able to spend time with both parents, and unless your spouse is considered dangerous or missing, they will most likely be granted some amount of custody time. It is important to remember that the courts decide child custody based on the interest of the children, and not the parents.
Contact a Union County Divorce Lawyer Today
Once your preparations have been made, it is time to begin meeting with divorce attorneys. Even if you are still not decided, speaking with a family law attorney who can advise you further on what to expect from a potential divorce settlement is a smart plan.
At the Linden, NJ law offices of Edward S. Cooper, we have extensive experience helping clients with all of their divorce related matters including child support, child custody, alimony, and division of assets. Edward Cooper combines a compassionate and client-centered approach with an aggressive form of advocacy, while working to obtain the most desirable outcome for his clients.
To speak with Edward Cooper today, contact us online or by phone at (908) 481-4625.
