How to Prepare for Your Divorce

The thought of divorcing your spouse, or having your spouse file for a divorce against you, is simply one of the toughest times you will experience in your life. Emotions run high and people tend to lose sight of what’s really important. It’s critical to view the dissolution of your marriage as a business transaction. You need to think clearly, logically and make sound decisions. Its’ critical to have a Chicago Divorce Lawyer who can help you through this nerve wracking time. The divorce lawyers at Taradash Given, P.C. have the skill, knowledge and experience to protect you and get you through your divorce.

There are certain actions that you, as the client, can do to help make your case run smoother.

Hire an Attorney (You Feel Comfortable With)

It is crucial to have a competent attorney represent you. Even lawyers don’t represent themselves in court. Many people feel that their cases aren’t complicated and that they can go it alone. This can lead to huge problems down the road. Remember, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Not only is it important to have a lawyer represent you, it’s equally important that you feel comfortable with your lawyer. Your divorce lawyer will not only zealously represent you, but he/she will also be your confidant and, in many respects, your therapist.

Safeguard Your Documents

Make copies of important documents and keep them in a safe place where your spouse cannot access them. Some important documents are income tax returns, bank statements, credit card statements, retirement account statements and insurance policies. Do not hide these in the house. Either give them to a friend or family member for safe keeping or open a safety deposit box in your name only.

Take Care of Your Credit

Hopefully, you will have an established credit history (credit cards, department store credit, gasoline cards, etc… ). Take time and review you and your spouse’s credit history. You can search www.freecreditreport.com.

Do not Sign any Documents From Your Spouse or His/Her Lawyer

Until such time that you have a lawyer representing you, do not sign any contracts, promissory notes, mortgages or agreements. You should have a lawyer review any documents to make sure you don’t prejudice your rights in any manner.

Keep Your Non-Marital Property Separate From Your Marital Property

All property acquired during the marriage is considered marital property. The exceptions are gifts and inheritances. Any property you had prior to the marriage is also considered non-marital. Keep your non-marital property separate and do not commingle it with marital property. This could result in your non-marital property being later classified as marital property.

Are You or Your Spouse Considering Filing for Divorce?

If you are considering filing for divorce or if you believe that your spouse is, contact a reputable Chicago divorce lawyer. The skilled attorneys at Taradash Given, P.C. will assist you in preparing for this stage in your life. To learn more about how to protect yourself and your interests, contact Taradash Given, P.C. Our attorneys will make sure that you and your rights are protected. You can contact us online or call us at (312) 775-1020 for a free, no hassle consultation.