Divorce in Georgia: First Steps and How to Prepare
How should you prepare for a divorce?
No couple enters a marriage starts thinking they will get a divorce, but this is a reality for 50 percent of couples that get married in the United States.
If you are considering a divorce in Georgia and need more information about the process, here are some steps to take that can help you prepare for what is to come.
How to Prepare:
- Be sure of your decision to file. Once you have served your spouse with divorce papers, it can be difficult to go back on that decision. If you change your mind, and your spouse have filed a counterclaim you may not be able to stop the processing.
- Gather financial information. Divorce usually has many financial implications, gathering your financial documents is an important step in preparing to file. You’ll need to have copies of bank statements, retirement accounts, mortgages, businesses etc. Essentially having a complete financial picture can prevent your spouse from hiding assets. Along with the assets, you will also want to gather financial information about your shared and individual debts. If you have a business with your spouse the financials may get really complex, a divorce attorney can help you find a business valuation expert to help determine the value of the business.
- Set goals for an attorney. When looking for representation, you need to have a clear picture of what you are looking for. Your divorce lawyer will be your guide through a really stressful time and at times things can get really personal. So, you want to make sure you lawyer fits your style and goals. Also, depending on your situation you want to make sure your divorce attorney is qualified and has the appropriate experience to handle your particular case.
- Figure out your living situation. Is your spouse planning on moving out? Do you plan to move elsewhere? Are you planning to share the household during the divorce proceedings? This question is vital as it relates to custody and ultimate possession of the home. On top of that, your behavior in the weeks and months leading up to your divorce can affect your case outcome. The best thing to do is to consult with a divorce attorney to best position yourself depending on your goals.
- Determine your goals for custody. It is important to think about this prior to meeting an attorney so that you can set clear goals as it relates to the best interest of your children.
- Develop a support system. Divorce takes a deep emotional toll on a family. As important as it is hiring the right family law attorney, is also to surround yourself with a strong support network that can help you through a difficult time. Being emotionally stable will prepare you to make smarter choices during your divorce.
Divorce proceedings can be a long process involving meeting with attorneys and making multiple court appearances. It can be a rough and draining process. Proceedings may examine your marriage under uncomfortable detail, from your marital relations, assets and property to what’s best for your children. Having a strong, supportive and experienced attorney by your side is key to obtaining your desired results. To schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys, call (770) 422-4241 or email info@gafamilylawyers.com.