Life After Divorce. What's Next?
The age old question: What’s Next? Is there life AFTER divorce?
You are driving home after your final divorce hearing when it hits you. I’m done! It’s finally over! When the relief of a final divorce hearing fades you are left with some very fundamental questions about what happens next. Here is my Top Ten List of things to do make your new life everything you want it to be.
- Do not lose my number. Often, a short consultation can provide peace of mind or clarify how the court would interpret your actions. I pride myself on being there for you for the long haul and being a resource for you as long as you will need me.
- Get a certified copy of the signed Final Judgment and Decree of Divorce. This document is proof to the world that you are divorced. If the court or your attorney do not provide you with a certified copy, go to the Clerk of Courts in the court where your case was heard to obtain one. Since many banks, credit card companies, car dealerships and other financial institutions may want a copy, consider getting at least two certified copies and several “regular” copies.
- Read the Final Judgment and Decree of Divorce. This is the document that sets forth your future obligations. Should you fail to read the document you may unwittingly supply a vindictive ex-spouse with legal justification to re-open parts of the case. It is amazing how many people could have avoided a post-decree contempt action by simply reading the Decree. If there is anything in your Final Judgment and Decree of Divorce that you do not understand, make an appointment to speak with your attorney.
- If you have children you need to secure their financial future by making sure that all necessary child support documents have been received by the appropriate agencies and employers. Call and ask for confirmation. Go on-line to verify. Make sure that you are in compliance with the law. If necessary, let your child’s school and/or daycare provider know who can/cannot pick up your child.
- If your case involves a Qualified Domestic Relations Order splitting the retirement benefits make sure that you know the telephone numbers for the people responsible for securing your retirement benefits. Again, rely on your attorney to keep you informed about the status of this important part of your case.
- File your taxes. Do not rely on your ex-spouse to cooperate in getting you the documents you will need to file. Proactively call your past years’ employers and ask for all documents to be sent to an address of your choosing. If you are the recipient of funds from a bank or investment firm contact them and, if necessary, provide a copy of your Final Judgment and Decree of Divorce.
- If your new life will involve co-parenting pre-plan how you will walk the tight-rope of having firm boundaries yet being flexible enough to make parenting time available. Explain to your children what they should expect. Talk to them about any concerns they may have. It is best to let the children see a strong commitment to their well being from both parties. If you, or your children, need help with a particularly wrenching arrangement, we can help. I have resources that can help make this transition as painless as possible.
- Create emotional safe havens for your new life. It is not uncommon to re-evaluate your circle of friends, your correspondence with ex-family members or people who you and your ex-spouse spent time with as a couple. If children are involved prepare in advance how you will deal with a change in traditions. Be firm with people who use guilt to manipulate you into making decisions that are not in your (or your childrens’ best interest).
- Make sure that all assets are transferred as dictated in the decree as soon as possible. When transfers still need to take place it is better to try to get them completed right away so that there is complete finality in regards to joint financial obligations. Being proactive will result in fewer complications.
- Update all important documents including your will, any annuities, insurance policies, power of attorneys, banking accounts, credit accounts and emergency contact information on file with your employer or other agencies or businesses. Change any emergency contact numbers.
Jamie L. Anderson dedicates her practice to representing families through the changes of a divorce or dissolution. She has made herself one of Greene County’s most prominent matrimonial attorneys and will use her experience to secure your family, your finances and your future. Contact Jamie L. Anderson at (937) 879-9542 or visit www.OhioDivorceAttorney.com to learn more.
