Divorce can significantly impact your personal and financial life, so you must be proactive and prepare yourself for the road ahead. Along with requesting support from family, friends, and your divorce attorney, there are several steps you can take to ensure a smoother divorce process. Here’s what you should keep in mind before serving your spouse with divorce papers.

What Financial Preparations Should You Make?

The divorce process in states like New York aims for an equitable or fair distribution of marital assets and debts. A thorough understanding of your finances can ensure that you can get a fair share during settlement negotiations. 

You may find it difficult to obtain documentation after the divorce process starts. So before filing your petition, gather all pertinent documents, make copies if necessary, and figure out where you stand financially.

Among other things, confirm your income and your spouse's, and verify what you owe and what you own. Also, close or pay off joint accounts and obtain copies of your bank account and business financial statements. Ask your divorce attorney what other financial records you may need as well as any fees for budgeting purposes.

Why Should You Complete Sales or Purchases Before a Divorce?

Once the divorce process begins, you can no longer dispose of or buy assets because this can affect marital property distribution. If you've been considering a legitimate purchase or sale, do so before filing for divorce. 

Technically, the court has no jurisdiction over your property until after the divorce petition is filed. However, judges in New York can refer to your actions before the divorce when deciding how to distribute the marital estate. As such, always consult your divorce attorney before buying or selling a property.

How Can a Divorce Attorney Help You?

A capable lawyer will thoroughly explain the divorce process to you. Additionally, they can keep track of deadlines, file documents, and draft paperwork. If you have children, your divorce attorney can help you create a parenting plan. They can also negotiate the settlement of the marital estate on your behalf and represent you in court when child custody disputes arise. 

If you need legal support for divorce proceedings, attorney Cheryl A Beverson, Attorney At Law in Middletown, NY, has been representing clients for over 20 years. Attorney Beverson has been helping clients achieve the best possible outcome in cases involving divorce and family law, traffic violations, and civil litigation. Call (845) 341-0008 to schedule your consultation, or send a message on her website.