The divorce process is often complicated, lengthy, and emotional for all parties. Before filing the paperwork to begin divorce proceedings, contacting an attorney helps determine where you stand.
Review Your Financial Situation
When going through a divorce, your spouse may have access to joint bank accounts and credit cards. Working with divorce lawyers helps you decide whether you should close or separate the accounts or leave them as they are.
Arranging these details before filing for divorce protects you from allowing your spouse to drain the bank accounts. Divorce lawyers in Plano, IL may also recommend that you freeze or close joint credit cards and open new bank accounts in your own name.
Determine Your Child Custody Options
Before filing for divorce, consider your child custody goals. Discuss the likelihood of joint or sole legal custody and physical custody with your lawyer. These arrangements determine where the children live and impact your ability to move to another state or country.
If you are in an abusive relationship, an attorney may help you obtain a restraining order or work with local law enforcement to ensure your safety. Taking the children from an abusive home without court intervention may lead to complications with child custody during the divorce. Work with divorce lawyers to obtain a custody order from the courts.
Review Premarital or Prenuptial Agreements
Premarital and prenuptial agreements are important documents for divorce proceedings. These agreements specify details such as child custody, the division of property, and spousal support. Allow the legal experts to review your agreement and determine how it affects your divorce.
Preparing for a divorce helps keep the proceedings from becoming volatile and protects your interests. Contact a lawyer before you file the paperwork to improve the chances of a favorable outcome regarding your property, children, support, and finances.
