If you are considering filing for divorce, there is a good chance you realize how demanding the process can sometimes be. On top of the emotional stress you may have encountered, you may also be feeling the weight of financial stress as well. This can be a very frightening situation, but you do not have to go through your divorce alone. Hiring an experienced and trustworthy attorney to help you along the way may make a world of difference. Here are some questions you may have regarding the divorce process:
What is the first thing I should do to get a divorce?
Divorce is a very involved process, and unfortunately, divorce often demands a lot of your time and effort in order to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible. This is why before you begin, you must first mentally prepare yourself for what is to come. Divorce is a very personal thing, so the most important thing you can do is make sure you are ready. Once you believe you are ready to take on the process, contact an attorney and proceed.
What paperwork will I need to get a divorce?
Once you have decided you are ready, you must gather the necessary paperwork and documentation. Some of the documents you will need to present to the courts include, but are not limited to: bank statements, credit card statements, pay stubs, W-2 forms, and tax returns. If this is a contested divorce, meaning your spouse does not agree to its terms, then the courts will need to establish a well-rounded picture of how your marriage functions financially. If a judge has to determine how your assets will get divvied up, he will need to know both you and your spouse’s financial information. Additionally, while you are gathering this information, it is important you take your own financial situation into consideration. You will need to confirm your budget and make any necessary lifestyle adjustments before the divorce is finalized. You do not want to be in a situation where you are alone and cannot pay your bills.
Are there alternate methods of divorce?
Divorce can generally be broken down into three different categories: arbitration, mediation, and litigation. It is best to avoid litigation if at all possible, because rather than you and your spouse, a judge will decide the terms of your divorce, which may be unfavorable to you, your spouse, or both. Many spouses choose the mediation process because of its neutral nature. Essentially, a mediator will listen to you and your spouse’s ideal terms for divorce, and from there will draft an unbiased, fair compromise. If you both agree, then you may proceed. This process is known to diffuse the tension so often involved in the divorce process, which may benefit you, your spouse, and your children. Arbitration is a similar process, except there are generally 3 neutral arbitrators who will listen to your terms and then vote on them to reach their decision.
Contact our New Jersey firm
The law firm of Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C., is composed of experienced defense attorneys throughout the state of New Jersey. Please contact the office for a free initial consultation and get any questions answered regarding criminal charges and procedures.