Divorce Lawyer Rockland County, NY
If you think that divorce is on the horizon of your marriage, it can help to speak with a Rockland County, NY divorce lawyer to learn more about what to do next. You may have this little voice telling you that something isn’t right about your marriage. Maybe you don’t know if you should file for divorce first or if that’s something your partner is considering doing themselves. The best way to find out where your marriage is headed is by talking about it. Open communication can change the pathway of a relationship simply by bringing undiscussed issues to light and working on them. However, if you are past that point and think divorce is right for you, then the team at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. can be of assistance. Here are a few signs that could mean your spouse may be thinking about a divorce too.
Unusual Financial Transactions
Has your spouse suddenly become unwilling to share information about their finances, when usually you discuss it openly? As a Rockland County divorce lawyer has seen before, your spouse may try to put up roadblocks that prevent you from accessing money. Perhaps you notice larger than usual withdrawals from your bank, without much explanation. If you notice that smaller but recurring withdrawals have been made in recent weeks or months that could be money your spouse is setting aside for the divorce. Ultimately, if something unusual is happening related to your finances and your spouse doesn’t have a valid reason for it, that is enough reason to be alarmed.
Over-Involved with Children
If you have kids together and your partner suddenly becomes overly interested in spending time with them, it could be because they are worried about custody if a divorce were to happen. You may see changes in how your spouse interacts with your kids and they may try to alter the public’s perception of them for the better. Your partner may become more involved in the child’s school, hobbies, extra-curricular activities, and general time together, when you were the parent who had been handling these responsibilities.
Prepare with a Lawyer
It can be hard to ignore when your marriage has reached that critical moment where you aren’t sure if it’s going to continue or not. Maybe you have realized it is time to move on. Or you just want to know how to prepare for divorce in case it does happen, but not yet. Whatever the situation may be, our team at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. can offer grounded support and insight. We understand how difficult divorce can be for people, which is why we have dedicated our practice to being a reliable legal resource. By preparing for divorce now, you are more ready for the next path if that is what you choose to take. For questions about divorce or other family related matters, a Rockland County divorce lawyer is available to help. Reach out today for the information you need.
The Process Of Initiating Divorce
As our Rockland County, NY divorce lawyer has witnessed firsthand, divorce is a challenging and emotionally taxing event that will likely require help from a legal professional. It can be difficult for all involved parties, and the process can be filled with uncertainty and trepidation. However, one can navigate this difficult period with greater confidence by understanding the legal process. Our team from Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. offers vital information regarding the most appropriate way to initiate divorce according to the laws common in many jurisdictions.
Understanding Grounds for Divorce
Before initiating a divorce, it is essential to establish the grounds on which the divorce is based. While it’s important to note that laws can vary from state to state, many jurisdictions recognize fault-based and no-fault divorce grounds. A no-fault divorce can be established by an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage for at least six months. Fault-based grounds can include cruel and inhumane treatment, abandonment for a continuous period of one year or more, adultery, and a legal separation agreement.
Preparing and Filing the Divorce Petition
After establishing the grounds for divorce, the next step in the process is to prepare the divorce petition. Typically one party will file the divorce petition. The divorce petition outlines the parties involved, grounds for divorce, and preliminary division of assets, debts, and, if applicable, child custody arrangements. Much of the time, a Rockland County divorce lawyer will complete the petition, but in some situations, you may be able to complete it without out.
The completed divorce petition is then filed with the court. The court will then process the petition and issue a summons. The petitioner will then serve the summons and a copy of the divorce petition to their spouse, giving them notice of the proceedings.
Response to the Petition
Once the divorce petition is served, the spouse has the opportunity to respond. In many states, similar to New York, the response typically needs to be filed within 20 to 30 days. The responding spouse can either agree with the terms of the divorce or contest them. If the terms are contested, this may lead to a more prolonged process involving negotiations or a trial.
Negotiations, Mediation, and Trial
If the terms of the divorce are contested, the spouses may try to negotiate a resolution. This can be facilitated through their lawyers or with help from a mediator. If an agreement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial, where a judge will make the final decision on the contested issues.
Finalizing the Divorce
Once the terms of the divorce have been agreed upon or decided by a judge, the divorce can be finalized. This typically involves drafting a divorce decree, which outlines the divorce terms, including division of assets, alimony, child custody, and visitation arrangements. Once the judge signs the decree, the divorce is official.
Divorce can be a challenging and complex process, filled with emotion and often legal complexities. While the process can vary slightly from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, the basic process of understanding the grounds, filing a petition, responding to the petition, and finalizing the divorce is typically followed. However, it will be key to consult with a Rockland County divorce lawyer like those available at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. to gain a clear understanding of the process in accordance with your specific situation.
Challenges Of Navigating Divorce
Divorce is a challenging and emotionally draining process that can often become complicated and protracted. It involves the dissolution of a partnership and requires careful navigation through various legal, financial, and emotional complexities. Here are several challenges that individuals going through divorce face which a lawyer can assist with.
Emotional Turmoil:
A significant challenge of finalizing a divorce peacefully is dealing with the emotions involved. The breakdown of a marriage often brings feelings of sadness, anger, confusion, and grief. These intense emotions can cloud judgment, making it difficult to make rational decisions. It is crucial to acknowledge and address these emotions, seeking support from trusted friends, family, or even a therapist. Taking care of your emotional well-being during this time can help you make sound decisions and communicate effectively during the divorce process.
Communication Breakdown:
Effective communication is essential in any divorce process. However, it is common for couples going through a divorce to experience breakdowns in communication. Past resentments, hurt feelings, and a lack of trust can make it challenging to have productive conversations. To overcome this challenge, it is helpful to establish clear boundaries and guidelines for communication. Utilize neutral platforms like email or mediation sessions to maintain a respectful and constructive dialogue. As a Rockland County divorce lawyer can explain more about, a mediator can be a beneficial third-party to help you and your spouse find common ground and strive towards an effective solution.
Division of Assets and Finances:
Some of the most contested topics divorcing couples face are the division of assets and finances. Disputes can arise over property, investments, bank accounts, and even debts. It is crucial to gather all necessary financial information, including documentation of assets and liabilities, to ensure transparency and fairness. Consulting with a financial advisor or divorce attorney can provide valuable guidance in negotiating and reaching a fair settlement. Remember to consider long-term financial implications and prioritize your financial stability while advocating for a reasonable division of assets.
Custody and Parenting Arrangements:
For couples with children, establishing custody and parenting arrangements can be one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of divorce. It is common for both parents to have vastly different ideas for how to raise their children, which can lead to disputes. To resolve this challenge, prioritize the well-being of the children and focus on creating a parenting plan that supports their needs. Consider involving a family mediator or custody evaluator to help navigate these discussions and find a resolution that is in the best interest of the children. Maintaining open lines of communication, fostering a cooperative co-parenting relationship, and seeking professional advice can all contribute to finding an agreeable and sustainable arrangement.
Arrange A Consultation
Resolving divorce involves overcoming several challenges, from managing emotional turmoil to navigating financial and custody issues. By addressing these challenges head-on and seeking support when needed, individuals can navigate the divorce process more effectively. Remember to take care of your emotional well-being, communicate openly and respectfully, consult professionals for guidance, and prioritize the best interests of any children involved. Find out how you can get the legal help you need to peacefully resolve your divorce by meeting with a Rockland County divorce lawyer from Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. now.