Best advices if you want to divorce in California

Divorce is a very high cost business. So you want to be sure you are well informed before making any decisions, especially of you live in California, in some nice place like Saratoga.

Flaws Remain Flaws: If there were things about your spouse that you didn’t like when you were married, you can count on those things bothering you after the divorce. Chances are you will be bothered even more. Instead of getting caught up in your ex’s “flaws,” learn to accept him or her for who they are and overlook what you can in order to get things done.It will be tempting to ask your attorney to help “explaining” certain things to your spouse so he or she will see your side. Unfortunately, your attorney can’t change that person. Save the money in attorney fees and recognize the differences between the two of you.

Get Organized.

During the divorce process, you’ll need to make hundreds of significant decisions that will affect you and your children for years to come. And the more organized you are, the better the quality your negotiations (and resulting settlement agreement) will be.

If you choose a competent professional to guide you through your proceedings, they’ll take you through a thorough discovery process to help with how to financially prepare for divorce negotiations that will follow. But some advanced planning financially before you start your divorce also can go a long way.

During the divorce process, spouses will often lob threats and hurtful remarks at each other as things become heated. If you are prepared for these threats, you may be able to deal with them better.

Expect Physical Reactions to Divorce
Stress has a way of impacting the body. From stomachaches to insomnia to weight gain (or loss), your mental well-being will affect your physical well-being too. Put your health first and avoid overdoing junk food and alcohol.

Keep Track of Your Spouse’s Money

If you’re thinking of filing for divorce or legal separation, it’s a good idea to take a look at your spouse’s financial situation. According to Narris, spouses should start by tracking the partner’s new credit card and loan applications.

“People are more generous in their income reporting on credit or loan applications than they are in, say, their 1040,” said Narris, who went on to stress that loan applications could be crucial parts of a divorce discovery.

Get Property Valued Before You Part Ways

When it comes to divorce, almost all property is fair game. However, spouses can’t hope to get their fair shares if they don’t know the value of assets.

“No sense in guessing on the worth of his baseball cards or your engagement ring – never mind a house or a business,” said Narris, who reminds couples that there are experts available who can appraise just about anything.

Doing your homework now is the best way to come out ahead down the line.

Consider Mediating Your Divorce

It’s no secret that divorce can be expensive. In fact, according to Narris, the average cost of legal fees in a divorce is $15,000. One way to cut down on these expenses is to use a mediator.

A mediator doesn’t work on behalf of any one party, just facilitates agreements. If you want to keep your divorce details behind closed doors while cutting costs, a mediator might be the best bet for both you and your bank account.

Our recommendation : The Law Offices of Heather J. Smith. Qualified as a lawyer in England and worked in the City of London before relocating to California in 1986. Upon being admitted to the California Bar I worked in the field of civil business litigation in private practice, and for a major technology company. My offices are centrally located in downtown San Jose. Please call or email me for an initial appointment at your convenience. More details on Heather J. Smith | Serving Los Gatos, Saratoga and San Jose. Contact info : 10 Almaden Boulevard, Suite 1250, San Jose, CA 95113. Phone: 408-279-1800. Email: hjs@hjslaw.org