When you got married, you thought it would be for life. Unfortunately, retirement came and you realized you both want different things. It's not uncommon. Many people don't realize that they're no longer compatible with their mates until after retirement age – when they must now spend the bulk of their days with them. If you're over 60 years old, and facing the prospect of divorce, here are three steps that will help you through the process.
Check in with Your Bank
If you and your spouse share a bank account, now's the time to check in. This is particularly important if you think your spouse is going to file for divorce before you do. You don't want to be shocked to find out that your spouse has filed for divorce and emptied out your bank accounts. As soon as you can, sit down with an account representative and go over the options that are available to you.
You may be able to require that both of you sign before money is withdrawn or transferred. You may also want to set up a separate account and transfer half the proceeds from the joint account into your individual account. This is beneficial if you live in a community property state, where you're entitled to half the marital assets. Be sure to have the bank document the amount of money that was in the joint account at the time of the transfer.
Document Your Assets
When it comes to marital assets, it's important that you know exactly what you own. If your spouse controlled the assets, you need to gather as much information as you can. Make copies of investment papers, mortgage documents, and other account information that you find. It's also important that you make copies of your tax returns and retirement accounts. You may be entitled to money from your spouse's retirement accounts, so you'll need proper documentation of those accounts.
Seek Legal Advice
Once you've made the decision to file for divorce, you'll need to hire an attorney, especially if your spouse has decided to seek legal representation. An attorney will make sure that your legal rights are protected, and that you receive the settlement you're entitled to. When you sit down with your attorney, be sure to bring as much documentation as you can provide – especially documents regarding all assets and debts that you and your spouse share, as well as income information for your spouse. This will help your attorney, ones like Kalamarides & Lambert, determine the amount of support you may be entitled to.
Share11 April 2017
Adopting a child is a wonderful way to bring a child into your family and give a child that needs a home a loving environment to grow up in. Unfortunately, the adoption process is not easy to get through. If you fail to file one document, the adoption can be set back by months. This blog will show you what to expect as you work your way thorough the adoption process and give you a few ideas of the things that you should leave up to your family attorney. Hopefully, what I have learned through my two adoptions will help you get through yours with no issues.
