Your spouse has just informed you that they want a divorce. You’re feeling highly emotional and don’t know what to do other than speak with law offices in West Palm Beach. Where do you even start when it comes to dealing with all of the legal issues surrounding a divorce? You need divorce help from a divorce lawyer. Life may seem like it is extremely difficult during this time, but you need to focus on a few topics to make sure you are treated fairly.
An Affordable Divorce Lawyer Needs as Much Information as Possible
Typically, a 0 to 6 month waiting period takes effect after divorce petitions have been filed then served on your spouse before the divorce will become final. What does this mean for you as a client? You need to have information ready for our law offices in West Palm Beach so they can fully negotiate on your behalf. Divorce lawyers necessitate a full understanding of your financial standing including your short and long-term goals. The more information you provide early on, the better our law firm in West Palm Beach can work for you. Be prepared to put in some effort knowing that all of the legwork and forethought will pay off in the end.
Prepare to Meet with Our Lawyers in West Palm Beach
There are a few areas that require your focus when it comes to topics you need to discuss with our attorneys in West Palm Beach. Plan to provide information regarding property, child support and custody if applicable, and spousal support. Be sure to bring all documents that substantiate or affect all of the topics mentioned that will support your case. The whole point of speaking with an experienced divorce lawyer is so they can advocate on your behalf.
Topic #1 – Property
In a divorce, marital property generally refers to any property that was acquired during your marriage. This can include your marital home, furniture, cars, retirement accounts, jewelry, as well as household furnishings. It is imperative to list all marital property, when it was obtained, and whose name is on the title or deed so your attorney can ensure everything is distributed fairly. Make sure to discuss whether time and money have been put into a home by either yourself or your spouse, as this can also affect how the property is divided.
Topic #2 – Child Support
Child support can be a sticky situation since it is actually the duty of both parents. Child support is determined by a formula, based primarily upon your income and your spouse’s income. Your attorney will review this worksheet with you in detail.
Topic #3 – Child Custody
Child custody (or parental rights) tends to be highly contested between parents. Legal custody can be put in the hands of the parent that is better suited to making critical decisions based on a child’s welfare, health, and education. Custody can be given to a single parent or both parents can share joint custody. There are many choices to be made when it comes to child custody. Discuss all custody options with your attorney from the beginning so they can advocate your position effectively.
Topic #4 – Spousal Support
There are many aspects that go into determining spousal support. Are you seeking alimony? Is your spouse seeking alimony? Spousal support or alimony may or may not be applicable to your particular case. Prepare to discuss career goals, financial needs, and the duration of time needed to reach your goals. If you believe you would be the paying spouse, prepare to discuss how such a burden could impact your financial future.