Just like other big decisions in life, divorces typically do not happen quickly or without careful thought. In fact, many individuals describe divorce as something they try to avoid until they realize they no longer can. Therefore, when the only option is to divorce and this option becomes very clear, it is time to be decisive.
Once you have realized that divorce is the only choice for you and your spouse, you may begin a process called divorce planning. This process may be stressful, overwhelming, and frustrating. However, an experienced attorney may be able to take some of the conflict, stress, and burden off your plate. To ensure that your divorce experience remains as pleasant as possible, contact our Maryville family law attorneys at Shepherd & Long, PC today. We can provide you with assistance and support as well as guide you through the process as smoothly as possible.
Why is divorce planning essential?
You are going through a lot with your marriage ending and your life changing. Before you decide to file for a divorce, you and your spouse should begin the divorce planning process ahead of time to sort everything out and prepare for this big step. This will allow you both to ease into this situation and decide how you would like your futures to look after the divorce.
Many people may think that mediation is the same as divorce planning. While you may be able to use your time in mediation to discuss divorce planning, mediation is a little different. This is the process of two spouses meeting with a mediator to resolve their issues and disagreements in their divorce. Almost always, an attorney is present for this.
Divorce planning, on the other hand, encourages individuals to begin looking at important pieces of their lives, such as finances, properties, investments, child custody, and more. By hiring a knowledgeable attorney to help you navigate this process, you are inviting an impartial expert into your situation to give their perspective and offer advice.
At Shepherd & Long, PC, we understand that it is difficult separating from someone with whom you have spent many years sharing your life. Our Maryville attorneys will provide our support as you take this big step. We will ensure that you cover every aspect of divorce planning, as well help you realize that you can still flourish in the future without your spouse.
What should be covered when divorce planning?
There are many issues to consider when it comes to divorce planning. You will need to mention these to your lawyer as well as discuss them with your spouse. Here are a few of the most important:
- Who your children will live with and where
- How important assets will be divided
- Who gets to keep the house
- Details of child custody arrangements
- Will there be specific holidays that each parent gets the children
- Will child support be involved
- How will money and finances be divided
- Will alimony be an issue
- Who will continue paying which bills
- Is co-parenting an option
- Will there be papers served in the future
- Will there be a court hearing in the future
- Are there issues with getting along
- Is collaborative divorce an option
By having a skilled attorney by your side to help you through the divorce planning process, you will be prepared before your divorce is filed. You will also have answers to the questions above and know what to expect when the divorce is finalized. While this is an uncertain period in your life, we will do our best to prepare you for any potential roadblocks that may arise.
The types of documents you will need for a divorce
There are specific paperwork and documents that you will need to locate and gather before your divorce. Keep these forms together in one place where they can be stored safely and located easily in the near future. Most attorneys ask for copies of these documents, which include:
- Marriage license
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
- Federal and state tax returns for the last five years or more
- Real estate documents, like mortgages, rental property records, and deeds
- Your will and power of attorney
- Healthcare information
- Business information, such as tax returns, receipts, trademarks, payroll documents, patents, and registrations
If you are unable to locate any of these important documents prior to your divorce or if your spouse is not giving them to you, your lawyer can help you with this matter. They will also go over the process of updating your insurance information, power of attorney, beneficiaries, and will.
Other types of family law cases we handle
If you have already gone through the divorce planning process or need assistance with a different type of divorce or family-related issue, there are several other types of cases that we handle, including:
With many family law cases come confusion, worry, and stress. If you need help with any of these situations, do not hesitate to reach out to our team, as we will ensure that you are given the confidence and understanding of the process. Our goal is to help our clients comprehend everything going on with their cases and receive the outcome they desire.
Divorces can become very complicated and time-consuming, which is why it is important to plan ahead and prepare for any possible outcome. Shepherd & Long, PC is a professional, trustworthy, and dedicated law firm. We go above and beyond for our clients and work to ensure we cover every last detail. If you are in the Maryville or Blount County area, call our office, or submit our contact form to schedule an appointment today.