Preparation Can Help With Divorce Fees

If you have friends or family members who have gone through a Florida divorce, they may have mentioned the expense. There are situations in which a divorce has a significant impact on an individual’s post-divorce finances, which can lead to additional stress during an emotional time.

If you are planning to divorce, know there are ways to plan ahead and reduce expenses. Being proactive as soon as possible in the process could save you thousands of dollars. Of course, each situation is unique and there are times when a long process is needed in order for you to obtain the outcome you want. Discuss your options with a Port St. Lucie divorce attorney. Once a skilled family lawyer understands your goals, they can help.

Gather Information to Share with Your Lawyer

Assets and debts need to be assessed and separated when a couple decides to end a marriage. When you meet with your lawyer, they will need to see the details of your finances to understand the best path forward. When you have these materials ready at your first meeting, you will not have to pay for time talking about what is needed. Bring as much as you can to the table as soon as possible to expedite the process and save you money.

Some of the items you should have available to discuss with your attorney:

• Financial account statements, including bank account records.
• Credit report copies, which shows all of the accounts that are active.
• Properties owned, as well as property assessments and outstanding mortgages.
• If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets, any item that supports that assertion.

Of course, there may be other documents that need to be examined as well. An attorney can advise you when more information is necessary.

High-Conflict Divorces Can Lead to Higher Fees and Expenses

When a divorce is contested and there are many disputes, it can result in a divorce taking longer, leading to higher expenses. Communication can save both individuals time and money, but that is not always possible. Additionally, if there are interstate or international issues involved, the divorce may be more complicated.

Once a Port St. Lucie divorce attorney is able to look over your documentation, they can ask you questions about your goals. The process will look different if you want to keep all of the properties or if you are willing to let go of assets to secure a certain custodial agreement, for example. Deciding what your goals are from the beginning can save you money in the long run. Timelines can extend when goalposts change.

Are you concerned about what your finances will look like once your divorce is finalized? There could be a legal path to clarity. At Baginski, Brandt & Brandt, our top priority is to take care of your needs and ensure that you are being well-represented. If you have any questions or you find yourself in need of legal help, please do not hesitate to contact our team of family law attorneys today.