INDUSTRY INSIGHT
DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAW
SPONSORED CONTENT
MARITAL
DIFFICULTIES?
Common Sense Tips To
Follow As You Separate!
I
f you are unhappy in your marriage and have been considering
separating from or divorcing your spouse, here is some important
advice to take into consideration when deciding on what your next
steps should be.
1. You should never just move out without first consulting a
lawyer. Likewise, you should never try to force your spouse to
leave without consulting a lawyer. We will help you to
understand the consequences of these scenarios, and help you
to decide the best approach for your situation.
2. One of your first steps prior to taking any action is to gather
information. Collect copies of all financial documentation such
as bank statements, retirement account statements, tax
returns, pay stubs, password information, credit card and
mortgage statements, employment agreements, life insurance
documentation, and everything else that helps provide a
complete picture of your financial circumstances. We will assist
you in this regard.
3. Secure and safeguard your sentimental and/or irreplaceable
marital items that could “disappear” once a separation takes
place, such as jewelry, guns, coins, photographs, artwork and
antiques. We will discuss with you appropriate steps to be taken.
4. Take photos of your household belongings and, if possible,
make a written inventory of each room of the house if you are
contemplating a separation or divorce.
5. Understand your household budget and your personal
expenses. Whether you are staying in the marital home, or
leaving, understanding what it takes to pay the monthly
expenses is an important part of this process. An analysis of
your budgetary needs and your net monthly income and the
impact of potential support should be done. Talking with us as
to understand whether you are eligible for support or whether
you will be obligated to pay support will help with the overall
analysis and strategy.
6. Identify whether there are joint accounts at risk and talk to us
about how to protect them.
7. Talk to us about additional steps to take to ensure your financial
stability in the early stages of this process. The court system
often moves slowly, and you may need to take certain steps in
the beginning to avoid a dramatic change of circumstances.
8. Establish a network of family and/or friends at the outset to
provide you with emotional support and help with the children.
9. Understand that sometimes, things can happen that are beyond
your control. We will help you to handle whatever you may have
to face.
10. Do not discuss your plans to divorce or separate with your
children. We can help you to understand what is, and what
is not appropriate in this situation and guide you to the right
professionals to assist as well.
Our team of top divorce and family law attorneys are available to
answer your hardest questions. We represent men and women like you
every day to navigate this very difficult time in your life. Contact us at
www.smgglaw.com or 412.281.5423.
Greensburg-Salem | Summer 2016 | icmags.com 9