A divorce proceeding can be emotionally and financially draining to all parties involved. Emotion is the drama of a divorce, but keeping focused on the financial elements is the key to protecting your assets. Self-discipline and the support of your family and friends are helpful, but at the end of the day it is the selection of your legal representative that will be of utmost importance.
Selecting the right lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case. As with many aspects of life, it is experience, knowledge, and reputation that should matter in choosing the right counsel and law firm. Choose a divorce lawyer who will not only be empathetic to your emotional needs, but who at all times will focus on the financial aspects of your case. The right lawyer will keep you out of harm’s way.
Many hours are spent with your lawyer; therefore, it is vital that you and your lawyer have the same philosophy and strategic plan necessary to set and achieve mutual goals. Legal fees may vary, but what should matter to you is the inner feeling of confidence drawn from trust in your lawyer’s reputation, abilities, and the mutual rapport between you.
Your role as a client is paramount in any divorce situation. You and your lawyer need to work as partners. In order for you and your spouse to reach an economic settlement or for a judge to decide the case, there are five pieces of information you must assist your lawyer in obtaining:
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- The identification and valuation of all assets and liabilities acquired as of the filing of the divorce complaint.
- The true and accurate income for you and your spouse (not just income reflected in tax returns).
- Your lifestyle during the marriage.
- Your current budgetary needs.
- Your parenting arrangement with the children.
- The identification and valuation of all assets and liabilities acquired as of the filing of the divorce complaint.
These five pieces of information are “front burner” issues and you must be practical and prudent in the process. At all times you should insist on receiving copies of correspondence and papers filed with the Court in order to be well-informed of the development in your case. Major decisions should be made by you and your lawyer after mutual consultation. Divorce is a legal matter. Leave vindictiveness on the sideline and heed the advice of your attorney. There is an old saying, “You never get what you deserve; you get what you negotiate.” It is critically important that you interact with your spouse in a manner that will be conducive to a resolution of your case. Never use your children as leverage to obtain a better settlement. It is contrary to the best interests of children and repugnant to a judge to litigate custody and timesharing rights for the purpose of negotiating a better economic settlement. Similarly, children should not be informed of the details of the divorce or be alienated from the other parent. Therefore, whether it is court proceedings, mediation, or arbitration, approach divorce in a calm, intelligent, and civil manner.
In conclusion, minimizing the stress of a divorce requires the selection of the right lawyer, and that you, as the client, can be an active and responsive participant in the process, where you make reasonable and rational decisions in partnership with your lawyer. This will result in a positive and satisfying outcome with dignity for all concerned.
Contact NJ Divorce Lawyer David Wildstein
A New Jersey divorce can be simple or fraught with difficulty and unresolved issues. David Wildstein is an experienced NJ Divorce Lawyer who can help you in tense negotiations, highly charged court hearings, and other legal matters throughout your divorce. Contact New Jersey Family Law Attorney David M. Wildstein to schedule a private meeting at his Red Bank or Woodbridge offices to discuss your case and explore your legal rights.
