Your first marriage didn’t quite go how you hoped. You tried to work things out but finally realized you needed to get divorced. Since it’s your first time getting divorced, you understand it’s a complex process, and you don’t want to overlook anything. It is a life-changing decision that will have long-lasting effects. Here are some key questions you need to ask when getting divorced.
Will You Share Custody?
If you have children, they are likely your main focus during the divorce. You want to ensure you still get involved in their lives. Do you want sole custody? Or, will you share custody with your ex? If so, how will you work out the details? These could include the custody schedule, school pickup and dropoff, what to do on holidays and birthdays, and more.
Will You Pay or Receive Child Support?
Raising children has become very expensive over the years, and married couples must work together to cover these expenses. After divorce, you still need to share these obligations. Will you pay child support, or will you receive monthly payments? Whoever pays will depend on income levels, the child custody arrangement, etc. Be sure to discuss this with your ex-spouse sooner rather than later.
How Will You Divide Assets?
Splitting up money and other assets is one of the most contested areas of a divorce. Separate the assets you had before marriage and the ones you earned after the wedding. You must disclose all assets and find a solution that adheres to state laws.
If the two of you bought a home together, it’s probably the biggest asset you own. Will you sell it? Can one of you keep it? Whose name is on the deed and the mortgage paperwork? A home is a big investment with a lot of value, especially if that market value has increased since you bought it, so what you decide here is very important.
Do You Trust Your Spouse?
In many ways, the key to divorce is working together. You need to talk openly about everything. Do you trust your spouse or think they’ll hide assets? Do you think they’ll lie about you and make up stories to benefit themselves? Do you think they’ll try to influence your kids to act against you? Before starting this process, make sure you and your spouse can be amicable and work together.
Have You Met with a Divorce Attorney?
Divorce is a big decision; these are just a few questions to consider before deciding to stay married or get divorced. It’s important to consider what’s best for you and your family before making any decisions. And hiring a divorce attorney can help with that. If you have questions about whether or not divorce is right for you, contact Mike the Lawyer today!
The Right Lawyer Can Make All the Difference
Hiring a lawyer should be the first thing you do when encountering any legal matter, not a last resort. Whether you’re thinking about a separation or divorce or have been charged with a crime, been injured in an accident, or your civil rights have been violated, you need to first know your rights. Contact Mike Mastracci today at 614 Edmondson Ave Catonsville, MD 21228 (with satellite offices in Ocean City, Snow Hill, and Salisbury, Maryland), 410-869-3400, and check us out on Facebook.