Rarely is a person completely surprised when their spouse asks them for a divorce. Oftentimes, warning signs appear and couples make a gradual transition to emotional and then physical separation.
If you believe that a divorce is in your future, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your assets. It is much better to be informed and prepared:
- Consult a lawyer. Many times people wait too long to seek legal advice, and assets go unprotected. Your lawyer can tell you what to expect, which will reduce your anxiety.
- Get your financial documents in order and put them in a safe place. Make photocopies of bills and statements; take pictures of your personal property. Important records, collectibles and jewelry sometimes disappear.
- Don’t hide money. Judges do not look favorably upon a spouse trying to hide assets.
- Don't bad mouth your spouse to family or friends. We may forget the spiteful things we said over time, but our family and friends do not. Further, your children shouldn't feel they are in the middle or that they have to choose sides.
- Change your Power of Attorney and Living Will immediately. If you've named your soon-to-be-ex-spouse as the person able to make decisions for you, change it on all documents.
- Consider talking to a therapist or counselor. You're probably stressed out about the possibility of divorce and anxious about the divorce process. Your friends and family, although sympathetic, may not be the best people to help you work through this trying time.
Getting Legal Help
Experienced Sacramento Family Law Attorneys Hal Bartholomew, Diane Wasznicky & the associates at Bartholomew & Wasznicky LLP can help you navigate your divorce with respect and compassion. Contact Bartholomew & Wasznicky LLP today for knowledgeable and respectful representation. Call us at (916) 455-5200 or email us at info@DivorceWithRespect.com
