Beginning the New Year with Change
The new year is a time for resolutions and starting fresh. But if you’re considering divorce, the new year can also be a time of anxiety and uncertainty. How do you prepare for divorce in the new year? What steps do you take? And what should you expect? In this blog, learn some important things to consider when preparing for divorce in the new year.
Prepare Necessary Divorce Paperwork
If you’re considering filing for divorce, there are some important pieces of paperwork you’ll need to prepare in advance. Collecting these items now will help make the process go smoothly later on.
The first thing you’ll need is a copy of your marriage certificate. This is necessary to file for divorce in most states. You can usually get a copy from the county clerk’s office where you were married.
Next, you’ll need to gather financial documents. This includes things like tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and investment account statements. You and your spouse will need to disclose your finances as part of the divorce process, so it’s important to have all the necessary documentation on hand.
Finally, you’ll need to prepare any documents related to custody and visitation if you have children. This includes creating a parenting plan and scheduling future visitations. If you and your spouse can agree on these things ahead of time, it will help minimize stress on you and your kids during the divorce.
Filing for Divorce in California
Next, you’ll want to be aware of California’s filing requirements. If you or your spouse has been a resident of the state for at least six months, then you can file for divorce in California.
To begin the process, one spouse will need to prepare and file a petition for divorce with the court. Once this is done, the other spouse must be served with papers so that they are aware of the proceedings. After this occurs, both parties will have an opportunity to respond to the initial petition and present any counterarguments they may have. From there, a hearing will be scheduled so that a judge can make a final decision on the matter.
Disclosing Your Assets
Perhaps one of the more tedious steps in the process is asset division. You will be required to list every asset you own, including but not limited to: savings accounts, retirement accounts, real estate property, vehicles, stocks and bonds, jewelry, art collections, etc. You will also need to list your debts. The court will then divide these assets fairly between both parties.
If you’re facing the end of your marriage, it’s important to be prepared both emotionally and financially. This process can be difficult, but by taking the time to understand what you need to do, you can make it through this tough time. New Year’s is a time for fresh starts, so if divorce is on the horizon, use this opportunity to get your affairs in order and prepare for the next chapter of your life.
Consulting With an Attorney
One of the first steps you should take is to consult with an experienced divorce attorney. They can help explain the process and what you can expect. An attorney can also help protect your interests and make sure that you’re getting a fair deal.
Preparing for divorce doesn’t have to be stressful. By taking some time to understand the process, you can get ahead on divorce and, with the help of your attorney, navigate through successfully.
At Griffith, Young & Lass, our team of attorneys is committed to helping our clients work through the most challenging times in their lives and helping them find results that meet their needs.
Learn more about how we can help with divorce or schedule a consultation by calling 858-951-1526 or by visiting our website.