Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Divorcing? Protect Your Children & Finances Before Its Too Late!

By Jon D. Alexander, Esq.

I am an orange county, California divorce lawyer and this article is one in a series that explains and details the divorce process. Subscribe to my newest newsletter today, which is linked below, and you will have access to all of my articles. This information is not intended as and should not be relied upon as legal advice or the creation of an attorney-client relationship. However, please feel free to contact me at Jon@OC-family lawyers.com to set up a free, confidential half-hour consultation. Thank you for reading.

Divorces sometimes occur suddenly but most of the time a result from conflict that occurs over a very long period of time.

Regardless of how it happens, you must take these steps to protect your children, your finances, and yourself. And remember there is a right way and a wrong way. Follow these steps and you will protect your interests in a manner that is reasonable and fair.

In divorce, one spouse is often at a disadvantage and suffers detriment because of unequal bargaining power. You, however, will not be so disadvantaged. In an ideal world, you and your spouse will be able to work things out in a reasonable manner. But in the event that proceedings become adversarial, the tips below will help you safeguard your interests. Be aware, though, that it is important to make a good faith effort to work things out before acting impulsively.

To protect your children, if you have them, you must immediately: (1) : obtain a TRO; (2) not allow your spouse to take your children and leave; (3) not leave the family home; and (4) insist upon a 50-50 split for child custody. Get a temporary restraining order immediately. Make sure that specifically prevents your spouse for taking the children out of state. You do not want a multi-state custody battle. doing this also prevents number two above the TRO will prevent your spouse from leaving with the children. Third, do not move out of the family home because if you do this may seriously impair your ability to obtain custody.

However, if you have already moved out you should move back immediately. This may cause stressful living situation but you can attempt to defuse the situation by suggesting a time sharing agreement until custody and divorce issues are resolved. Fourth, you should not agree to settle for less than 50% custody. Your spouse does not have any greater rights to spend more time with your children and you. Furthermore, if you accept less time now you will be setting a precedent for the future. Make sure to insist upon a 50-50 split

Now to protect your finances and yourself: visit my website that is linked below to find out how to protect yourself and your finances. This entire article is contained at my site and while you're there make sure to sign up for my newsletter! Thank you very much. Very truly yours, Jon D. Alexander, Esq. - 15784

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