What You Need to Know About Getting A Divorce: An Introduction
This guide is designed to help you think through the issues when you and your spouse are considering separating and getting a divorce. New divorce laws in almost every state make it easier than ever before to obtain a divorce. Some states do not even require that you be separated before you file for divorce, enabling you to live in the same house while you negotiate a Marital Separation Agreement (MSA), after which you can file your papers in the state where you live.
Table of Contents
- Do You Need a Divorce Lawyer?
- Selecting a Divorce Lawyer
- Should You Represent Yourself in Your Divorce?
- Divorce Mediation
- Consider Divorce Mediation if You Have Conflicts
- Get Organized Before You File or Consider Getting Divorced
- An Uncontested Divorce is the Way to Go
- Grounds for Divorce and Residency Requirements
- Safeguarding Your Assets in a Divorce
- How the Courts Divide Assets in a Divorce
- Pensions and Other Assets in a Divorce
- Professional Licences in a Divorce
- Dividing Debts and Liabilities in a Divorce
- Alimony (Spousal Support)
- Child Custody
- Visitation
- Parenting Plans
- The Marital Settlement
Agreement