Moving out of your marriage is a life-changing decision, and you have probably spent days or even months contemplating every option. If you are sure that filing for divorce in Huntsville is inevitable, it is time to plan the next steps. While Alabama laws don’t make it mandatory to hire an attorney to initiate the proceedings, you should seek legal help. Each divorce case has a set of unique minutiae. Unless you get a complete review and evaluation from an experienced family lawyer in Huntsville, you cannot expect to have clarity. For your help, we have enlisted tips that will come in handy to prepare for the divorce.
Check the state laws
You will find endless online resources on Alabama laws. The state recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds, although most cases are no-fault ones. You should also consider where you stand with your spouse. Are you on talking terms? Do they agree to the decision of divorce? If so, are they willing to cooperate to resolve the conflict? If yes, you can have an uncontested divorce, which is likely to get resolved sooner.
Get your team together
You cannot go through the divorce alone. The decision has consequences, both legally and otherwise, and it is wise to have a support system during the trying times. First, find a local family law expert in Huntsville. They should be your go-to person for legal advice and guidance. Take your time to find someone who has credible experience with similar cases, especially if there are evident issues with your spouse. You may also want to meet a financial planner to understand where you are now and where you could stand after the divorce. As for your emotional stress, consider seeing a therapist.
Gather relevant documents
You have to collect all relevant documents for the divorce, such as tax returns, pay stubs or proof of income, bank account statements, and documents concerning debts and assets. You also need information on your primary home, such as tax details, insurance info, and mortgage essentials. If you have an estate plan, ensure you have the paperwork with you. Also, if you have prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, keep copies.
Prep your kids
Talking to your minor children about the divorce can be a real challenge. Ideally, you and your spouse should tell them together, and no matter the circumstances, don’t blame your spouse before the kids. Tell them about the changes that they can expect during and after the divorce, and don’t forget to reinforce the fact that they will remain your priority.
Take steps for the life ahead
Here are some quick points –
- Figure out where you will live and if and when you intend to move out of the marital home.
- Create a budget for yourself to know what expenses you will have and how you will manage them.
- Find out the cost of having an attorney and how much you will have to spend on the divorce
- Avoid posting anything on social media about the divorce
- Do not date immediately until the divorce is finalized.
Consulting your lawyer
If you want your divorce lawyer in Huntsville to help you, make sure to share all the details. Whether it is about the reason or other aspects like fault or if you are dating someone, your lawyer should have a clear idea of every aspect. Attorneys often base their strategy based on the information. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the process and the expenses. For uncontested divorces, many attorneys work on a flat fee, which they will mention in advance.
Meet an attorney before you consider taking the first legal step.
