If you think that your marriage is about to come to an end, it may be in your best interest to file divorce paperwork before your spouse does. This is because it enables you to put together a team of North Carolina professionals who may help you obtain a favorable settlement.
You’ll have less trouble gaining access to key documents
You will want to obtain copies of tax returns, joint bank statements and other financial records before serving your spouse with divorce papers. Obtaining these records before your spouse knows what is happening can allow you to get what you need regardless of how controlling or secretive this person may be. Filing for divorce before your partner does may also make it harder for that person to hide or obscure joint assets. Depending on where you file, it may be possible to obtain an automatic temporary restraining order (ATRO) as soon as the paperwork is received.
Get a head start on planning your financial future
Filing for divorce before your spouse does means that you, likely, have money set aside to pay an attorney or other professionals. In addition to saving money, it can be a good idea to get a credit card in your own name to help build or reestablish your credit history. Generally speaking, obtaining credit is easier before filing for divorce than it is during the proceeding itself.
If you are in the process of ending your marriage, you will likely want to hire an attorney. This person may help you discover hidden assets or take other steps to ensure that you receive a fair settlement. A divorce settlement may include alimony, child support or a majority share of joint assets if you need them to maintain a reasonable standard of living.