A Guide For Divorcing Parents

Divorce can be complex and emotional. It becomes even more so when children are involved. During the divorce process, you will have to make difficult decisions and be willing to compromise. You should consider and process your questions before meeting with an attorney. When you meet with your family law attorney, you should be in a position to discuss and work through certain issues that will be a part of the divorce process. Here are five things every divorcing parent should think about before their initial consultation with a family law attorney.

Visitation

You need to think about how you will share custody of your child(ren.) Some people may expect 50/50, but that may not be reasonable in your circumstances. For instance, if you live an hour away from your former spouse, 50/50 may not work—especially if the child is enrolled in school.

Your Home

Your house is likely your highest and most valuable asset. When you meet with your attorney for the first time, you should consider what your goal is regarding the division of the marital home. Here are some options:

  • Stay in it by buying your spouse out

  • Refinancing

  • Selling it and sharing the proceeds with your spouse

  • Adding a co-signer to qualify for a refinance

Financial Documents

Start gathering your financial information so that you can hand it over to your attorney ASAP. You will need to provide at minumum:

  • Tax returns for the past three years

  • Bank statements

  • Credit card statements

  • Retirement accounts

  • Pay stubs for the past six months

Consider Mediation

Mediation can be an efficient and cost-effective way to resolve your most complex issues. Going to court should be your last option as opposed to your first. When our firm goes to trial, we shut our office down for two weeks before it begins. We will be solely focused on you and your case during that time. As expensive as that will be, there is no guarantee that you will get everything you want.

Relocating

Some parents are eager to begin the next chapter of their lives and want to relocate. Before committing to this option, consider whether moving is the best option for your child and their future.

C. Alvarez Law

When you are ready, you can discuss each point in deeper detail with us during your consultation. By considering each one now, you are already ahead. These are the types of questions you would have asked during your initial consultation, and now you may already have the answers. When we understand what you want, then we are in the best position to represent you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

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C. Alvarez Law

C. Alvarez Law is a Central Florida-based law firm that helps families find resolutions to their most complex family law issues. We are dedicated to providing the support and advice you need for a positive outcome and a better life. Before you can move on with your life, you need closure. Our firm is diverse, energetic, and passionate about delivering this for the clients who have placed their trust in us. Let’s work together today to find a better tomorrow.

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