It might surprise you to learn that you need to have a plan for your Louisville divorce before you file. TV shows, streams and the movies usually present the decision to divorce as a spontaneous, emotional decision. While there may be an emotional spontaneous moment which triggers part or all of the decision to end your marriage, the actual filing for divorce is rarely that emotional or spontaneous.
A recent study revealed a large portion of those who divorce consider the idea of ending their marriage for a significant period of time before actually taking steps to make it happen. These weeks, months and even years are required to give full consideration to every aspect of the decision. Is this really the right thing to do? If you spend that much time reaching the decisions about whether or not it is time to end your marriage doesn’t it seem reasonable to spend the time needed to have a plan for your Louisville divorce before you file the paperwork and serve your former spouse (or they serve you)?
One of the most important and overlooked issues when people consider a divorce is simply “evidence.” Documentation. Separating the lives of two spouses requires a substantial review of all assets and debts. This is one of the reasons to prepare and plan prior to filing. It is best to organize 2 to 3 years of physical statements for every bank or financial account, investment, business, or retirement asset associated with either of you or both. This also applies to W2’s and tax returns, especially if you or your spouse own or have an interest in a business or professional practice. Once one of the spouses files for a divorce cooperation between the two parties often ends and access to important information can be limited or denied.
Do you have children? One of the most important reasons to have a plan for your Louisville divorce before you file is to protect the best interests of your child(ren) and preparations to make the transition as smooth and stable for their lives as possible. The Court will pay close attention to all of your actions as a parent. Do you want to share in parenting time and important decisions regarding the life of your child(ren)? Do you want the majority of custody and visitation or sole custody of your children? Do you think your spouse may attempt to use the children as leverage in your divorce? Do you think you might need to improve your own practices as a parent to help you to be in a position to continue to be a significant presence in the life of each child during and after your divorce?
These are some of the reasons it is important to have a plan for your Louisville divorce before you file. The divorce and family law attorneys at Dodd & Dodd have provided sound advice and counsel to clients considering or working through a divorce in Louisville for decades. What do you fear most about a divorce? What is most important to you? Get the answers you need and the planning required to make sound decisions while preparing you for one of the most important chapters of your life.
We invite you to review the strong recommendations of our former clients and contact us or call 502-584-1108 to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced divorce and family law attorneys.
