- DO talk to a lawyer -
- It is always a good idea to know what your legal options are. There is a great deal of information available on the internet or through acquaintances regarding divorce, property division, and child custody issues. Unfortunately, a great deal of information available on the internet is not state-specific; and while your friends can be helpful, every case is unique, and the issues vary.
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DO locate and photocopy your financial documents -
- You will need copies of income tax returns, paycheck stubs, W-2's, 1099's, bank statements, credit card statements, mortgage documents, and retirement account information.
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DO attempt to create an inventory of the items in your home -
- Frequently one party will gain temporary exclusive of the marital residence, and it can be extremely difficult to create an inventory from memory. It can be useful to either photograph or videotape in order to help you create an accurate inventory.
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DO keep an eye on bank accounts and credit card accounts -
- Neither party should engage in activities such as emptying bank accounts or increasing debt on credit cards. Careful monitoring of those accounts may help prevent financial difficulties later.
- DO carefully consider your words and your actions - they can effect the outcome of your case.
- DO consider talking with a counselor or therapist. Lawsuits are stressful, they are emotionally and mentally draining. If you need help, ask.
- DO NOT engage in actions that will only serve to further anger your spouse or the other party. This serves no purpose, and can make a resolution extremely difficult to achieve.
- DO NOT say anything in a text message, email, or voice mail or telephone conversation that you would not want to be seen or heard in a courtroom.
- DO NOT expose your children to anyone with whom you may have a dating relationship. This can very detrimental to your children, and can effect you in a custody suit.
- DO NOT communicate with a boyfriend/girlfriend by text message, voice mail, cell phone, email. These items can all be used in court against you. Proof of adultery can cause you to loose custody of your children, and can adversely effect property settlements.
- DO NOT talk badly about your spouse or former spouse either to your children or where they can hear what is being said. The well-being of your children should always be first in your mind -- it will certainly be on the mind of the judge deciding your case.
- DO NOT withhold information from your attorney. The only way your attorney can adequately represent you is if you are honest and forthcoming with all of your information.
