WHAT SHOULD I DO WHILE MY DIVORCE CASE IS PENDING?
Once the decision to divorce has been made and the lawsuit has been filed, what should you do? This week’s blog post will outline some specific things you should do and not do.
REMEMBER YOU ARE “UNDER THE MISCROSCOPE”
Many of the most pertinent facts for the Judge to consider happen while the case is pending, because those facts are more recent. You should act as if everything you do is being recorded and will be played to the Judge or jury at trial. Do not do anything that the Judge or jury might ultimately think is harmful to the family relationship. For example, you should avoid the following:
- Destroying, wasting or hiding assets
- harming or neglecting the children in any way
- being inflexible or uncooperative with visitation arrangements
- making negative or disparaging remarks about your spouse in the presence of the children
- using excessive alcohol or illegal drugs
- becoming involved in a new romantic relationship
cOMMUNICATE ALL RELEVANT INFORMATION TO YOUR ATTORNEY
Because your case continues to evolve while the case is pending, it is critical that you inform your attorney of any new circumstances and events that might impact the evaluation of the case and your attorney’s strategy for handling the case. Occasional e-mails are generally the most effective way of communicating updated information to your attorney. If you’re not sure about what to communicate, discuss the matter with your attorney or the paralegal assisting your attorney.
ORGANIZE AND PROVIDE RELEVANT DOCUMENTS TO YOUR ATTORNEY
Your attorney will need you to provide copies of pertinent documents, such as bank account information, deeds, stock certificates, children’s school records, etc. Gathering and organizing this information can simplify the process and save significant amounts of attorney’s fees.
DOCUMENT, DOCUMENT, DOCUMENT
Did your spouse post something harmful to his/her position on Facebook? Print a copy. Did your spouse hit you? Take a picture of any bruises. Did your spouse no-show for visitation? Make a note on your calendar. Communicate with your spouse and follow-up with texts or e-mails to confirm the substance of significant discussions, then print a copy of the written communications.
If you’re anticipating a divorce, make sure you have quality legal representation to guide you along the way. The events that occur after the filing are critical to the successful resolution of your case, and having an experienced attorney on your side makes a big difference. The family law attorneys of Christiansen Law Firm have significant experience representing spouses involved in divorce. Contact the attorneys of Christiansen Law Firm for additional information or to schedule an appointment.