What To Do Before Filing for Divorce in California
Legally dissolving a marriage can be a stressful process – particularly when the marriage lasts several years. In order to streamline the difficult process, it is essential to develop a comprehensive checklist. Still, in order to ensure that all the bases are covered, it is important to consider working with an experienced family law attorney who understands how to navigate the complex legal process. The prominent divorce attorneys at RM Law Group, LLP have over a decade of experience representing clients throughout Southern California. They can answer your questions and help you navigate the difficult divorce process smoothly.
RM Law Group, LLP understands that divorce can be one of the most challenging, life-altering events that can happen to a person. With many years of experience in the field of family law, the attorneys at RM Law Group, LLP have an in-depth understanding of the law and they take the time necessary to understand the needs of their clients. The proficient legal team takes great pride in ensuring their clients receive tailored legal support and they work tirelessly to reach beneficial results for them. To learn more about how the seasoned law firm can help you achieve a favorable outcome in your case, consider completing the online contact form here to schedule a no-cost initial consultation.
Important Things to Do Before You File for Divorce
Getting divorced is hardly ever an easy process, even when the matter is uncontested. Aside from the emotions involved, a divorce can demand the parties involved to get adjusted to new environments, finances, and sometimes even friendships.
Before filing for divorce, the amount of stress involved can be lessened by developing a comprehensive checklist. With proper planning, dealing with the requirements of a divorce can be less exhausting and emotionally draining. The following are just some of the most important things to consider putting on a checklist when preparing to file for divorce.
- Organize Family and Financial Documents
When children are involved, child custody is perhaps one of the most difficult aspects of getting divorced. Aside from this, financial arrangements are perhaps the most contentious. In order to prepare for a potential challenging legal battle, it is important to have everything ready. The following documents should be kept and copies of them should be made:
- Birth certificates and IDs
- Recent utility bills
- Bank and credit card statements
- Tax returns
- W-2 forms and other income statements
- Mortgage and loan documents
- Prenuptial agreement
- Property titles, deeds, trusts, etc.
- Judgments or pleadings of both parties
- Conduct an Inventory of Assets
In a California divorce, property and debts are categorized in two forms: community property or separate property. When the assets and debts were obtained during the marriage, the items in question will be considered community property. If the items were obtained before the marriage or after the legal separation, the assets/debts will be considered separate property.
Before filing for divorce, it is important to conduct an inventory of all assets and debts. The list made should include items acquired as a couple, including as an individual.
- Devise a Child Custody Plan
When facing a divorce where children are involved, it is always important to keep in mind that for California family courts, the children’s needs and their well-being will always trump everything else. As a parent, it is important to take the steps necessary to ensure the welfare of the children is protected.
It is always recommended for parents to work together to ensure their children are taken care of. As a parent, devising an ideal parenting plan should be made. This should embody a desired living arrangement and childcare setup. This plan can then be negotiated throughout the divorce.
Work With a Skilled Family Law Attorney
Filing for divorce is rarely an easy process, but the journey can be made easier when sufficient preparation is made. If you are facing divorce, it is recommended that you work with an attorney who understands the law and will ensure your rights and interests are protected.
The seasoned family law attorneys at RM Law Group, LLP are prepared to help you achieve a favorable outcome in your divorce. The team of proficient attorneys has experience in handling the most difficult divorce cases, including child custody, child support, and spousal support. When facing divorce, consider having a reliable team of attorneys on your side. Consider retaining the support of RM Law Group, LLP. You can schedule a no-cost case consultation today by filling out the confidential form found here.
Jason Martinez is a co-founding partner of RM Law Group, LLP. His practice focuses exclusively on California Family Law and community property division, including litigation and settlement of complex and high-conflict divorce and child custody proceedings. Jason understands that divorce and family law issues have long-term effects on all family members, especially the children.
