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Legal and practical advice Lucille P. Uttermohlen P. O. Box 278 Monticello, IN 47960 (574) 583-6661 |
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The process of divorce isn't that hard. It consists of initiation, the "provisional" or "intirim" period, and the final hearing and divorce decree. Here, the procedure is explained. For more information get your free sample chapter of -- One of the biggest areas of dispute in divorce is how to divide assets (property) and liabilities (debts). Here, we consider the different kinds of property, and the things you should think about when negotiating settlement. Practicing law isn't all fun and games. In fact, it can be a first class pain in the neck. If it wasn't for the humor in it, I'd quit and become a belly dancer. I'll tell you why, and keep you supplied with stories and information about family law. I'll also do you all a big favor and stick to practicing law. |
Debts And PropertyOf course, people fight over everything in divorce. They can do battle for important things, like 401 (K) accounts or other retirement assets. They can fight over bank accounts, certificates of deposit, IRAs, and just about anything concerning money.The other things people fight over can be less logical. Furniture, appliances, household goods and other personal property may be worth bringing to the judge's attention. Motor vehicles, too can be very expensive to replace. However, you can end up paying more in legal fees and aggravation then some things are worth. At some point, it is more economical to buy replacements than to insist on having the specific article you and your ex had together. Debts, too can inspire fights that could have been avoided if the couple had put the same resources towards paying them off. Sometimes, it pays to fight for justice. Sometimes, people are so angry when they are in the middle of a divorce that they lose sight of the big picture, and end up broke as well as angry. On This PageReal Estate The family home can be a place of warmth and fond memories. It can also be a burden, especially when the couple who own it are getting divorced. There are options to dealing with this asset. Hopefully, you and your spouse can agree on one.Motor Vehicles What is pretty and shiney and not worth near as much as you owe for it? It could be a car, truck or suv. A boat, motorcycle or trailer could also qualify. It could be a jet ski or all terrain vehicle. In short, if it has a motor and looks great in the show room, it can be a financialpain in the neck when you divorce. Money Money may not be the root of all evil, but it certainly starts its share of battles in divorce court. If you both earned it, you may as well split it equally. Courts don't only look at whether you worked outside the home. When the question is how it was accumulated, the court will assume that a person who stayed home to raise kids and manage the household contributed, and is still entitled to a fair share. Negotiating Personal Property Can Save You A Bundle Things that cost you a lot of money can be worth a lot less when you seperate. The court won't see your 6 month old couch as worth the $1000.00 you paid for it. The appliances and electronics you have may have set you back plenty, but the court is only going to value them for what you would get at an auction or garage sale. Make A List Of Your Stuff So You Don't Forget "What about my mother's pitcher? It has sentimental value." I must have looked like someone had dropped me on my head. We were on our way out of the courtroom after a very difficult final hearing. The judge had been unhappy with both lawyers and clients. Nothing sounded so good to me as a cold drink and a hot bath. Debts If you are deeper in debt then either of you will be able to pay, you might consider bankruptcy. It is strong medicine, and not one I would advise you to take lightly. |
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Your Pocket Divorce GuideIf you and your spouse don't have children, property or debts, or you are in agreement about the issues you do have, you may choose to get divorced without a lawyer's assistance.Even if you do end up hiring counsel, you should understand the procedure of divorce so that you can participate fully in the management of your case. Your Pocket Divorce Guide will show you what you need to know to understand the divorce process. Go here to learn more and to claim your Free Sample Chapter
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