Protect Yourself During a Divorce
Whether your divorce is a long-expected event or comes as a surprise, you will want to consider taking steps that will help protect you, your finances, and your loved ones. To understand more about your rights and responsibilities throughout the divorce proceedings, speak to a well-versed attorney who has experience handling these types of cases. The divorce law attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP can help.
For many years, the attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP have represented those going through a divorce. For the most part, a divorce process will be easier to get through when both parties work amicably and in good faith. Unfortunately, there are many cases where at least one of the parties refuses to work together. When facing a contentious divorce, consider discussing your case with the attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP. Schedule your complimentary case evaluation with the firm today.
When There Are Children in the Home
When there are children in the home, it is important to recognize that moving out of the family home can affect custodial rights. Living with a difficult spouse may be challenging but it is necessary to at least attempt to reach an agreement where the home can be shared amicably.
Additionally, taking children out of state without the consent of the other parent should be avoided. When a dispute involving the children arises, it may be necessary to file a “request for order” (RFO) with the court to have the court make an order than can be either temporary or permanent.
Protect Yourself Financially
Canceling all jointly-help credit accounts is necessary, but it is equally important to avoid telling the other party about the plan to do so. Any debt owed in the account is the mutual responsibility of both parties; therefore, if the other party charges the account in an act of bad faith, this will affect both parties.
Moreover, it is not uncommon for hurt or angry spouses to attempt to “clean out” any joint bank accounts. Before the account is cleared out, consider opening a new personal account with half of the funds available. A notice of this should be sent to the other party in writing. Taking half the money in a shared bank account is legal so long as it is rightfully owned.
Marital Property Should Be Cataloged
Divorce cases can be incredibly contentious, particularly when it comes to dividing property and assets. If it is necessary, marital property should be cataloged. This means making a video recording of the marital property. When making a recording, it is important to have the date visible in the video. Also, all marital items in the home should be clearly visible, including important items in drawers. Finally, if there is a storage unit or a safety deposit box mutually held by both parties, the items in these units should also be cataloged.
Obtain the Qualified Support of a Skilled Divorce Attorney
There are many different reasons why a divorce can become challenging, including child custody disputes and property allocation. If you are facing a difficult divorce, seek the support of a qualified divorce attorney who can guide you through the challenging process and help protect your interests.
The divorce law attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP are highly regarded in the field of family law. Benefit from a unique approach to your case by receiving a compassion-driven and results oriented plan of action from the firm. The attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP can help you reach a solution that suits your needs and goals. Schedule your complimentary consultation by contacting the firm today.
Stephen Levine, is a Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Defense — an honor achieved by only the top criminal law attorneys in California. Mr. Levine has over 40 years of experience in criminal defense and family law serving Southern California, and is a highly regarded Super Lawyer as well as AV Rated attorney.