Steps To Take After Receiving Divorce Papers
If you unexpectedly received divorce papers in the mail or via courier, you are most likely anxious about what the future holds. After the initial shock wears off, you are likely to go through a variety of emotions from angry, to upset, to scared. There are several steps to take after you receive papers to help in guiding you along the right path in protecting and dividing assets, deciding on custody of children, and protecting your mental situation. Here are some calls you will want to make fairly quickly after divorce papers are received.
Hire An Attorney To Represent You
It is extremely important to have an attorney hired to help you make the right decisions leading up to your divorce. Failing to hire an attorney and trying to handle the process on your own can lead to you losing out on monetary compensation, keeping some of the belongings that you wish to retain, or time with children. An attorney will give you recommendations on how to proceed with your divorce and will aid in fighting for what is rightfully yours.
Consider Getting Counseling
Going through a divorce is a difficult process. Hiring someone to talk to you about the ups and downs and the uncertainties ahead can make you feel less depressed, guilty, and afraid. Talking to a professional about your feelings throughout the events you are enduring can be a great way to let off steam and find coping mechanisms that will keep you in a positive demeanor when divorcing.
Protect Your Assets
It is important to let your attorney know about the assets you have in your possession and which of these you believe belong solely to you. If you had placed money in a bank account before you had married, you may have rights to the entire sum. Do not try hiding assets as this could cause you to look deceptive if they are discovered at a later day. This could have adverse effects on your divorce case when you see a judge to determine the division of property.
Calling your bank to put a hold on withdrawals however is a smart action. Stop getting direct deposits and give your spouse money to live on during the divorcing process if you make a larger paycheck. The money in the bank will stay in a holding pattern until a judge can determine what specific sums will be awarded to each of you.
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