Considering Divorce? 5 First Steps

If you are considering filing for divorce in California, here are some important steps to take before starting the legal process:
1.                 Consult with a divorce attorney: A divorce can involve complex legal, financial, and emotional issues that require professional guidance. A divorce attorney can help you understand your rights, obligations, and options under California law, as well as provide you with practical advice on how to protect your interests and achieve your goals.
2.                 Gather financial documents: A divorce will require you to disclose your income, expenses, assets, and debts to your spouse and the court. To prepare for this, you should gather as much financial information as possible, including tax returns, bank statements, credit reports, retirement accounts, and property titles.
3.                 Consider your living arrangements: Depending on your situation, you may need to make temporary or permanent living arrangements before, during, and after the divorce. This may involve finding a new home, sharing custody of children, or negotiating a separation agreement with your spouse.
4.                 Plan for your children's well-being: If you have children, your divorce will affect their lives in many ways. You should consider their needs and preferences, as well as the legal standards for child custody, visitation, and support in California. You may also want to explore mediation or collaborative divorce options to minimize the impact of the divorce on your children.
5.                 Protect your privacy and security: A divorce can be a sensitive and stressful time, and you may want to take steps to protect your privacy and security. This may involve changing passwords, securing your social media accounts, and keeping confidential documents in a safe place.
Of course, every divorce is unique, and you may have additional or different concerns depending on your circumstances. However, by taking these steps and working with an experienced divorce attorney, you can better prepare yourself for the divorce process and increase your chances of a positive outcome.
  I advise my client based on the facts and the law, with a discussion of the cost benefit analysis. Call today to schedule a consultation with my office.
 © Law Office of Kristine Fowler Cirby Any information you obtain from this article is not legal advice. Legal counsel should be sought for the answers to specific legal questions. This communication is an advertisement as defined by The Rules of Professional Conduct and California Business and Professions Code.