America has one of the highest divorce rates in the world, according to American Psychological Association. Whatever the circumstances are, it’s a reality that can sometimes come as a complete shock to all parties involved.

It’s important to know the legal and financial implications of filing for divorce or being the first one even if you may or may not know where the marriage stands, which the top divorce attorney in Phoenix namely Skupin Law Group PLLC has outlined below; 

The Financial and/or Legal Implications of Filing for Divorce First

The answer to this question isn’t straightforward but quite complex. While it does make sense to be the first one to race to the courthouse and file the divorce, even for a fleeting moment of satisfaction ‘rejecting’ the other, there are also some legitimate reasons for doing so.

Filing for Divorce First Gives Time to Line up the Best Divorce Team

The best possible outcome can be achieved, but for that you will need the right team of qualified divorce attorneys behind your back that can take some time to assemble. Excellent attorneys aren’t that hard to find, but make sure that your representation is fully qualified to handle even the most complex cases. In addition, having a qualified divorce financial analyst, a good therapist as well as a vocational expert by your side will be ideal although not strictly recommended.  

Filing for Divorce First Can Prevent the Other Party from Hiding Their Assets

Women being unaware of a divorce are often cheated out of their rightful share, as many husbands try to hide their assets during the process. As deplorable as this sounds, affected parties have to be prepared for this eventuality and file first for the divorce, if given the chance. In a state that requires an Automatic Temporary Restraining Order, being the first one to file for divorce will help guard against such and more underhanded tactics. 

Filing for Divorce First Will Give Advantage over Where It Will Be Adjudicated

Generally decided in the jurisdiction in which divorces are filed, if you and your spouse have separated already and reside in different counties or states, or spend equal amount of time where the divorce was filed and where the current residence is, it’s a good idea to know what legal implications are legitimately available for filing for divorce in different venues.

 State laws vary greatly when it comes to child custody and marital assets distribution, therefore doing the proper research and consulting with your attorney is highly suggested. Even after doing everything that’s required, you may still feel under-prepared which is why hiring an attorney that specializes in such cases is recommended and extremely beneficial.  Are you prepared to go through with your divorce?