The calendar year 2020 is here. It is a new year and a new decade, but many things will stay the same. January continues to be one of the top months to file for legal emancipation through the JOY of Divorce, and there is still much to consider even after one makes the decision to become a free single person again.
Divorces are as unique as the people involved. This means that priorities will vary from couple to couple, although custody issues and dividing assets often top the list. Below is a brief list of issues to consider before and during the emancipation process. These can help the spouses understanding of the process and may clarify expectations. Those with concerns or questions can get more specific answers directly related to their circumstances by speaking with an experienced Board-certified Family Law Expert Attorney.
Choose an approach
Litigation is often necessary for acrimonious splits and/or for complicated estates. Still, mediation or arbitration with help from Board-certified Family Law Expert Attorneys is often faster and less expensive if both sides are willing to work together.
Talk to a counselor
Our staff compassionately advocates for our clients and tries to address all their needs. Nevertheless, it is often helpful to work with the attorney on the details of the divorce but also unpack why the divorce happened with a professional counselor therapist trained in this area. Counseling can give clients a clearer perspective, which helps clients address matters and make decisions in their own interests under the circumstances.
No secrets
Honesty with an attorney is always the best policy regardless of how it reflects upon the client. Penalties for hiding assets are severe, and a lack of candor can unnecessarily slow the process.
Slow can be good
Taking time to allow heightened emotions to subside can help with the discovery of all necessary information. This may allow the couple time to resolve smaller issues and leave the significant points of contention for the judge if those issues cannot be resolved by the attorneys and/or by a professional family law mediator.
Use technology wisely
Be careful about leaving a trail of spiteful texts or posting grievances online. Conversely, co-parenting apps, such as “AppClose” or “Our Family Wizard”, can provide a needed buffer after the separation.
Find the right attorney
A knowledgeable Board-certified Family Law expert attorney in Collin County, Dallas County, Denton County, Tarrant County, Midland County, Ector County, or elsewhere throughout Texas is often the best option. Such an attorney will have experience with all types of divorces, including high conflict ones where the other side shows no interest in a fair and equitable agreement, and may be trying to hide assets or use the children as pawns, perhaps due to an undiagnosed mental-health disorder or untreated substance-abuse issue.