If you as a couple have decided to go your separate ways, you may be looking for help on how to apply for a divorce. Divorce is a legal proceeding known for its complicated turns and you often always need the help of a lawyer and other professionals to help you navigate this process. You can help yourself by arming yourself with the right information before you make the decision to get a divorce. Read on to get started.
States vary in the specific requirements for a divorce. In Texas, a petition for divorce may be granted due to insupportably or conflict of personalities, living apart, confinement in a mental hospital, cruelty, abandonment, conviction of a felony and adultery.
Most states in the US and in Canada are no-fault states which means that the spouse filing for divorce does not have to prove any wrongdoing on the part of the other spouse. However in most cases, whether one of the spouses committed any wrongdoing may be taken into consideration by the judge in dividing the marital property or granting custody.
To successfully file an application for divorce, you must meet the following criteria:
--existence of a legal marriage recognized in the country
-- the marriage has broken down due to one or more grounds
--one or both spouses has lived in the state or territory for a full year prior to filing of the application for divorce
This is a general description of application requirements. Other specific requirements may be required in different states. For example, in states like Texas, a divorce is not final until 60 days after you file the petition. However, it may take longer depending on the complexity of the case.
Divorce is not a DIY proceeding so it is important to work with a good lawyer who can walk you through each step of the process and ensure that your rights are protected from start to finish. It is also useful to work with a reliable tax and accounting firm who can handle the financial aspect of the proceedings for you.
Divorce involves the division of marital assets and debt. If you as a couple have complex financial portfolios, you need the help of professionals who can help you divide these assets. An accounting and tax professional is the only person who can help you deal with the long-term financial and tax implications of your divorce. He or she can help you work through all the financial angles in your divorce settlement, examine documents to ensure that the wording accurately reflects what has been agreed by the parties, and in worst case scenarios, prevent the possibility of fraud.
Divorce proceedings are bound to take up a chunk of your time and money. This is the reason why it is wise to work with professionals who can ensure that you are financially protected as the proceeding goes on. Get in touch with Lone Star Tax Group for comprehensive assistance with your tax and accounting needs for your divorce. Call us at (806)300-8903 or email at info@lonestartaxgroup.com.
Lone Star Tax Group