How to Prepare for a Divorce in CA
Divorce affects many different individuals within a family. It has a large impact on the divorcing couple, their children, and other loved ones. Preparation of your case requires speaking with a lawyer to gain a strong understanding of this transition period of your life. If you and your current spouse are prepared, you can make it easier on the children involved. Divorce preparation can begin long before the legal process takes place. At the Law Office of Zeppy Attashian, PC. , I have assisted a number of clients and provided them with pre-divorce advice for up to two years before the separation. Speak with a Fresno divorce attorney from my firm to begin the steps to prepare for your divorce case.
Pre-divorce Planning Summary
- Gather documentation – This includes items such as full names, addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, marriage details, previous divorce decrees, marital agreements, credit report, etc.
- Plan for the future – This includes routing mail, opening a separate bank account and credit card, saving money, inventory on property and debts, etc.
Gathering Documentation
When you are preparing for divorce, there are a few basic steps that should be taken. You can prepare for this process by gathering all of your financial records. These documents can later be used to back up anything that you say or to identify discrepancies in the other party's information. You will need:
- Full names
- Addresses
- Phone numbers
- Social Security numbers of both parties as well as of your children
- The date and county in which the marriage took place is also needed
- If either party was previously married, a certified copy of the divorce decree will be necessary
- If a premarital or post-marital agreement was established, a copy should also be provided
- You should also obtain a copy of your credit report as well so that you are aware of all your debts.
Effectively Planning for the Future
In addition to gathering the necessary documents, you will want to take steps to prepare for this new chapter of your life. You can open a P.O. Box to route your mail. A divorce can frequently distract you from taking care of your children and yourself, but the future can be better established if your new life has been carefully thought out and planned. Preparing for your future can include opening a credit card in your name alone and opening an individual bank account. You can start setting money aside for legal fees so that you do not find yourself in a difficult financial circumstance during the course of the legal process. You will then want to prepare an inventory of all your personal property, real property and debts.
Get Advice on Divorce Preparation
As your Fresno divorce lawyer, I can assess your situation and provide you with specific information uniquely applicable to your circumstances. I will guide you in knowing how to prepare for your divorce. There is a lot of valuable advice I can provide you with that depends on the details of your situation. My legal guidance for pre-divorce preparation may include advice on whether or not to pay down debt, secure a new job, work overtime, go back to school and / or leave the marital residence. The advice I offer will be tailored to your personal situation. Contact the Law Office of Zeppy Attashian, PC. today to find out how I can help you through your case!
