Ways Women Can Protect Themselves in a Divorce

Written by Jonathan Breeden

August 8, 2021

Are you a woman considering ending your marriage? Or maybe you are actively involved in a pending divorce? No matter your situation, if divorce is in your future, you need to take steps to protect yourself.

Most couples can’t resolve their divorces amicably. Breeden Law Office is here to help women like you take the appropriate steps to get what they deserve in divorce. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself.

Note Your Separation Date

One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself is to note your separation date. This is the date on which your assets, liabilities, and debts are no longer considered marital.

Create an Individual Account and Copy Bank Information

If you are in a place where you are still considering divorce, it may be in your best interests to open your own individual bank account and start taking steps to protect your finances. Start making copies of your bank statements and joint account information.

It isn’t unusual for spouses to try to hide money when divorce is expected or announced, and you don’t want to be caught by surprise. Once you are officially separated, any money you earn, assets you acquire, or debts you incur will be yours alone.

These details could become important when you begin to negotiate how your marital property will be divided in your divorce. It can also factor into whether alimony may be awarded in your case and how much if it is.

Take Inventory of Your Assets and Debts

One of the most essential parts of any divorce is the division of your marital property and assets. If you’re considering divorce, it’s time to make a list of your marital assets.

Marital Assets

Marital assets might include any of the following:

  • Real estate
  • Stocks
  • Bonds
  • Vehicles
  • Cash
  • Pensions

Any assets you obtained during your marriage are considered marital.

Marital Debts

The same goes for your debts. Some examples of marital debts could include:

  • Mortgages
  • Auto loans
  • Credit card debts
  • Bank loans
  • Judgments

List Additional Assets of Value to You

It may also be wise to make a list of the things that matter most to you. Since North Carolina is an equitable distribution state, you stand a fair chance at being awarded the assets and property you hope to retain in your divorce settlement.

As previously mentioned, it isn’t uncommon for spouses to try to hide assets. This inventory and supporting documentation can help to protect you as a woman going through a difficult divorce.

Prepare to Battle Over Child Custody Plans

If you share children and are going through a challenging divorce, you will inevitably need to formulate a child custody plan. North Carolina law will determine what is in the best interests of your children if you and your ex are unable to agree together. However, you may feel it necessary to fight for sole legal or physical custody in some instances.

Evidence to Support Domestic Abuse Claims

Fighting for sole legal or physical custody is common in cases of domestic violence and abuse. If this is a concern in your case, you must start documenting evidence that can be used to support your claims. Such evidence could include:

  • Medical records
  • Voice recordings
  • Text messages or voicemails
  • Photographs
  • Video footage
  • Witness statements
  • Journal entries

Your Divorce Lawyer Can Negotiate an Agreement

Whether abuse is an issue in your divorce or not, when you share children, you need to be prepared to show why your child custody terms are best for your children.

Your divorce lawyer in North Carolina can help you negotiate with your spouse and their attorney to come to a child custody agreement that works best for you and your family.

Get Help From a Divorce Lawyer in North Carolina

When your marriage is over, you need to make sure you protect yourself, your assets, and your future. As a woman, you must take steps to ensure you aren’t taken advantage of during this trying time in your life.

Get a dedicated North Carolina divorce lawyer on your side. Contact Breeden Law Office to schedule a case review. You can call us at 919-661-4970 or fill out the convenient contact form provided below.

 
 

Divorce In North Carolina: What You Need To Know

A book by Jonathan Breeden

Download