Divorce can be one of the hardest things that can happen to a person, legally, financially, and emotionally. In Indianapolis, getting ready for a divorce takes careful planning and attention to detail. You can make the process go more easily, avoid unpleasant surprises, and protect your legal rights by taking the right steps before filing with an Indianapolis divorce attorney. Knowing how to prepare for a divorce in Indianapolis can help the next phase of your life go more smoothly.
Learn About the Divorce Laws in Indianapolis
To get ready for a divorce in Indianapolis, the first thing you need to do is learn about the state’s divorce rules. People in Indianapolis can get a divorce even if one partner is considered to have most of the blame. This is called a “no-fault” divorce. “Irretrievable breakdown” of the marriage is the most common reason given for getting a divorce.
In Indianapolis, at least one partner must have lived in the state for six months prior to filing. You must also have lived in the county where the divorce is filed for a minimum of three months. It is important to know these residency standards because not meeting them could cause your divorce to take longer than planned.
Prepare Important Documents and Finances
Getting your finances in order is one of the most important things you can do before you file for divorce. This will help you project your financial future and abilities and keep you from being surprised during the divorce process. Some important documents you’ll need to get are:
- Bills from banks
- Tax forms from the last three years or more
- Slips of pay or records of income
- Statements for credit cards
- Plans for investments and retirement
- Deeds to properties and debt papers
- Proof that you own the business (if needed)
- Budget and monthly costs
If you keep all of your financial papers in order, it will be easier to divide your assets. Because Indianapolis is an “equitable distribution” state, assets and bills will be split fairly but not always equally. Having a clear picture of your funds can also help your lawyer negotiate a good settlement on your behalf.
Make Plans for Your Money and Your Life
Take some time to think about your personal and business goals before you file for divorce. It’s important to think about your future after getting divorced because it can change your life in a big way. Some things to consider are:
- Where you are going to live. Will you stay in the house or move out?
- Parental time and child custody. What do you want when it comes to child custody, and how do you plan to parent together?
- Employment and finances. Will you need to go to school or get job training to be able to support yourself after the divorce?
- Changes to the budget. How are you going to support yourself (and possibly your children) with one income? Do you need child or spousal support?
You can make sure that your needs are met in the final divorce settlement by setting goals. This will also help you decide what is most important during talks.
Consider Your Children’s Best Interests
If you have kids, do not neglect their well-being throughout the divorce proceeding. When Indianapolis courts decide who gets custody, they pay a lot of attention to what is in the best interest of the child. Both parents should be able to work together to make a plan for child care and parenting that works for everyone.
Talk to your partner about how you will share parenting and child care. Make a plan for how you will help your kids through the change. In case it comes up in court, make sure you keep thorough records of your time with the kids, including their daily activities, doctor’s visits, and school events.
Having a well-thought-out plan for the well-being of your children can help them deal with the emotional effects of the divorce better and can help you get a better custody arrangement.
Talk To a Divorce Lawyer
A skilled divorce lawyer is very helpful during the divorce process. Talking to a lawyer right away can help you understand your legal rights, weigh your options, and come up with a plan that works for you.
Your lawyer will help you understand the complicated laws, keep you from making mistakes, and look out for your interests when you’re negotiating or in court. In addition, they can give you the legal forms you need to begin the divorce process and make sure that all the steps are taken properly.
FAQs
Q: How Long Do You Have to Be Separated Before You Can File for Divorce in Indianapolis?
A: Before you can file for divorce in Indianapolis, you do not need to be apart from your spouse for a specified amount of time. However, when the paperwork has been submitted, the divorce must wait for a period of sixty days before it can be finalized.
Q: How Much Does a Divorce in Indianapolis Usually Cost?
A: In Indianapolis, the cost of a divorce can vary based on things like lawyer fees, court costs, and whether the divorce is contested or not. Generally speaking, an uncontested divorce will be cheaper than a contested divorce because there is usually less time spent in court, which will contribute to court costs and additional lawyer fees. Contested divorces will generally cost more, especially if there are more complicated issues to work out.
Q: Can I Get a Divorce in Indianapolis Without a Lawyer?
A: It is possible to get a divorce without a lawyer in Indianapolis. This is known as a “pro se” divorce. This should only be attempted for very straightforward divorces with no disagreements. If you have children, a lot of money, or arguments during your divorce, you should talk to a lawyer. An attorney can fight for your rights and negotiate on your behalf while expressing your concerns in court.
Q: How Do Assets Get Split in An Indianapolis Divorce?
A: Indianapolis follows the idea of “equitable distribution,” which means that bills and assets are split fairly but not always equally. When splitting assets, factors such as how long the marriage lasted, what each partner brought to the relationship, and their current financial situations will be taken into account when determining how assets will be split.
Contact Stange Law Firm Today
If you are preparing for a divorce, a Fort Wayne, Indiana divorce attorney at Stange Law Firm can assist you. Contact us today for a consultation.
