Intent on Divorce or Separation? A First Step in the Right Direction

The holidays are a very hectic time of year. The stress of the end-of-year rush, the need to save money, holiday travel, and the onset of winter may all take their toll on a couple’s bond. Here are some things you can do right now to ease the strain of a future divorce or separation from your spouse. A gig harbor divorce attorney can greatly assist domestic violence cases, especially if minors are involved.

First, find out if you qualify for a divorce

You can apply for divorce in Washington State at any time, regardless of how long you’ve been separated from your spouse or how long you’ve been a resident of the state. Divorces in the state of Washington are “no-fault,” meaning that neither spouse is at fault in the split.

Two, straighten out your financial situation

Determine the total value of your assets and liabilities individually and as a couple. A list or spreadsheet can be used to compile all of this data.

• Think of everything you own that has monetary value, from retirement accounts (IRAs, 401(k)s, pensions, etc.) to stocks, bonds, and other investments to the equity in your home to your car.
• Mortgage, car payments, credit card balances, education loans, medical expenses, tax debt, and utility bills should all be listed.
• Take a tally of your combined earnings, bonuses, and other payouts (income from rental property, dividends from shared assets, etc.).
• Think about everything that goes into running your home and add it up: rent or mortgage, insurance, utilities, food, transportation, and so on.
• Print out your account statements or take photos of your balances so you can easily remember where everything stands. Financial impropriety or attempts to conceal assets can be avoided as a result.

Third, weigh the advantages of having a seasoned advocate on your side.

When a couple divorces amicably and has few assets, they may be able to do so without the expense or hassle of employing a lawyer for the process. The divorce procedure can be intimidating because many divorces are not easy. A competent family law attorney can assist you in creating a parenting plan that meets your family’s specific requirements, dividing your debts and assets fairly, and negotiating fair spousal support.