Don’t Try To File A Divorce Without Seeking A Free Consulation First
Before you file for divorce, you need to assess how it would affect your life. There are various issues that emerge when you file for divorce; they include child custody and support, equitable property settlement or prenuptial agreements. Most people file for divorce not knowing the consequences it could have on their lives. A free consultation with an experienced divorce lawyer will enlighten you and help you view things in the right perspective. Discussed below are some important things you may want to consider before filing for divorce.
Are You Financially Stable?
If you’re not financially stable or don’t have a stable source of income, you may want to tackle this issue before filing for divorce. There are certain conditions that you need to fulfill to stay out of trouble with the family court. Keep in mind that most courts look at the status quo of couples when ordering temporary or permanent child custody. They’ll also determine who the primary caregiver for the children is.
What about your Retirement?
Pensions are considered as a part of property under the Family Law Act of Ontario. This implies that the pension plan will be divided under a property division plan.
What about Property Settlement?
When you file for divorce, ownership of family assets becomes entangled in the process. If you owned property that has increased in value, you’ll be facing tax issues and you need to know how you’ll tackle the problem. You can speak to a tax professional about the impact of property division before agreeing to the settlement.
How Long Will it Take?
The divorce process is a sad moment for most couples and they would want to quickly put it behind them. Although the period of time needed to complete a divorce will depend on the complexity of your situation, the lawyer should be able to provide you with a time estimate. If you’re a full time employee, you need to plan early or notify your employer so that you can be allowed to attend the court proceedings.
How Much Will it Cost?
Most lawyers charge an hourly rate while others prefer to charge a flat rate. Sometimes, the divorce process can take years to finalize, so you need to prepare for the financial impact it could have on you. If the divorce lawyer is charging an hourly rate and the divorce process takes longer than expected, it may cost more.
Am I Eligible for Alimony?
In Canada, you have a right to claim spousal support when divorcing or separating. Alimony is granted where a spouse was financially dependent on the other spouse or the spouse had to stay at home to take care of the children. A free consultation with a Toronto divorce lawyer will help you know whether you are eligible for alimony or not.
Before filing for divorce, consider what is at stake; you can lose your property, relationship and children. A free consultation with one of our Toronto divorce lawyers will help you understand what’s at stake and how to go about it. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.