Divorce is tough, but you do have choices.
Either you can choose to control your divorce, or you can let your divorce control you. A big part of you controlling your divorce is controlling the costs involved.
If you and your spouse have decided to part ways and can work together, there are things that you can and should do if you want to save some money, time and aggravation.
A good first step is to find a lawyer that is best for you and your needs. Considering a lawyer who has a background in mediation can help you work towards a cost-effective and timely divorce. He or she will act as a neutral third party and guide you and your spouse through the divorce process to a mutually beneficial agreement.
Mediation has the additional benefit of avoiding a litigated divorce where a judge rules over the division of your property, custody of your children and support payments that you need to survive. In addition, divorces that play out in court can last a long time, be very expensive and tie up your schedule and your life with numerous court appearances.
Honestly reporting your income will eliminate the possibility of being penalized by paying your exes’ attorney fees, fines from the court and even jail time. An accurate statement of assets will ensure that you receive the most amount of support of pay the least.
Another important step is closing all joint accounts. By doing so, all of yours and your exes’ purchases can be kept separate – otherwise, you could be held responsible for purchases after the divorce is finalized.
Now that you will no longer have a combined income to live on and possibly only support payments, sit down and create a budget for you to help you allocate your expenses.
Think about this – “When it’s all said and done and you learn how to enjoy your post-divorce lifestyle, you will thank yourself for the steps you take now.”
Divorce is not an easy step in your life and you need to do what you can to limit the stress on yourself. Contact the Orange County family law offices of Amy M. Montes. We will be able to ease this burden so you can concentrate on getting on with your life.
