Dissolution Case Tip Sheet

1. READ THIS: Read everything you receive from this office and carefully review all documents that you complete. Many forms you are required to complete have “fine print” requiring documentation. It is time consuming and more costly to have to do it twice rather then take the time initially to complete as much as you can.
2. MORE WORK: Consider your divorce case a part time second job or homework. It may be unpleasant to have to think about, but it is very important. The more that gets done up front the less that has to be done at the conclusion of your case. You do not want a “good” settlement opportunity to be lost due to not having the information and documentation necessary to completely resolve all issues.
3. LAST MINUTE?: “Lack of preparation on your part, does not make an emergency on my part”. Do not wait until the last minute to deal with potential problems (i.e. house selling; vacation with the children, etc..). The Courts are not open 24/7 and I cannot simply throw things together and have the Court consider your “motion” at 4:45 p.m. on Friday.
4. KEEP RECORDS: From the date of separation and thereafter make sure to keep all records such as credit card statements, investment/retirement account statements, tax returns, earnings statements, documentation regarding purchase of property (home, vehicle); cards or note indicating something was a gift from a spouse or other family member, health insurance information (and any other policies that may exist: life, vehicle). This is a partial list, if you are not sure if it is important to keep, just ask, it may be.
5. STREET CORNER LAWYERS: You may hear a lot from a person at work who knows someone who pays no spousal support? Or got the house for a bargain? Or got to keep all their retirement? Usually there is another side to the story such as that other person’s spouse did not request support? House was in disrepair and the other spouse got to keep another asset? The retirement may have been the other asset! The facts of a case differ and so do the outcomes.
6. MY SOON TO BE EX SAYS!: Do not expect your spouse to behave any better during the divorce then they did during the marriage. While hope springs eternal, do not believe all your spouse is telling you. They simply may be trying to intimidate you into settlement. The biggest threats have to do with children and/or support payments (sometimes both). Listen to the person you are paying to give you advice, not the person who you are divorcing.
7. FOLLOW ORDERS: Judge’s orders are not suggestions, they are orders. Whether you agree that the Judge made a correct decision or not, you must follow orders that are made. Keep in mind that the Judge you are assigned to will be your Judge through the conclusion of your matter and possibly any post dissolution modification hearings. The best way to ensure the Judge will listen to you and be more likely to decide in your favor is to have a history of compliance.

© 2005–2018 Richard A. Schneer – Attorney at Law