A divorce is a life-altering experience, even in the best circumstances. Many people who experience divorce have trouble managing the stress of an uncertain future. Fortunately, there are steps you can take in preparation for divorce in New Canaan.
The importance of experienced legal counsel when navigating divorce cannot be overstated. Even if you believe the process will be simple, consulting a skilled divorce attorney can help you avoid expensive mistakes and frustrating delays.
A person considering divorce should have at least a basic understanding of the laws and policies courts apply when dissolving marriages. Realistic expectations can make the entire process smoother and more manageable.
For example, some people leave their marriages determined to deny their co-parent access to the children to the degree possible. Unless the co-parent has a documented history of unfitness, a court is unlikely to grant unlimited access. Connecticut General Statutes § 46b-56 favors both parents having contact with the children consistent with the children’s best interests.
Similarly, people may assume that property they owned prior to marriage is not subject to division in a divorce. Connecticut considers all property either spouse owns at the time they file for divorce to be marital property, and a spouse who wants to keep certain property separate must demonstrate why.
A family law attorney could discuss a specific case and offer advice about whether there is adequate support for a contention that certain property should be treated as separate.
Anyone considering divorce in New Canaan should formulate and prioritize goals in preparation. The goals might relate to retaining a family home or some other property, avoiding alimony payments, or having a certain amount of time with the children. Most people will have multiple goals they hope to accomplish.
Courts strive to ensure divorce settlements are fair given the surrounding circumstances, so a spouse may not achieve all their goals. However, they may obtain their most significant goals if they have considered what is most important to them and discussed their objectives in detail with their lawyer.
Divorce settlement negotiations proceed more smoothly when each spouse concedes something of importance to the other. Spouses will most likely reach their goals when they understand their most valuable bargaining chips.
Ensuring financial security after divorce must be a priority. Reaching a financial settlement can be time-consuming and expensive, and doing as much work as possible before the divorce can be helpful.
Anyone considering divorce should familiarize themselves with the family’s assets and debts. In marriages where one spouse is primarily responsible for handling finances, the other spouse must get up to speed before the divorce filing.
A New Canaan attorney can help a spouse prepare an inventory of assets and debts before filing for divorce. For example, a spouse must know how much money it requires to run their household before they can make a reasoned argument for or against alimony.
Courts strive to ensure that the children do not suffer a noticeable decline in their standard of living after divorce, but the family must maintain two households on the income that formerly supported one. Developing a realistic and verifiable budget can help the spouses negotiate appropriate financial arrangements.
A divorce can be overwhelming emotionally, financially, and even physically. Use the time before filing to get familiar with the process and be prepared to ask for what you need.
Preparation for divorce in New Canaan can help ensure the legal proceedings go smoothly and you meet your goals. Speak with a member of our team today to get started.
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