Four Ways To Protect Your Future Financial Security In A Tampa Divorce
Adjusting from being married to getting a divorce in Tampa is challenging. Be aware of how your current decisions could impact your future financial security.
Our experienced Tampa divorce lawyer provides caring, comprehensive legal service during this difficult time in your life. While we work diligently to resolve your divorce as efficiently and successfully as possible, the following are four ways you can protect your rights throughout the process.
Protect Your Financial Future During A Tampa Divorce
When getting a divorce through the Hillsborough County Family Court, you likely have concerns about how it will impact you in the aftermath. To make a full recovery and the fresh start you need, focus on getting what you are entitled to in your divorce settlement.
Our Tampa divorce lawyer will explain how the Florida Statutes apply to your situation and your rights regarding property and asset division. We generally encourage all clients to take the following steps to protect their future financial security:
- Take a thorough inventory of all assets and debts.
Under Florida divorce law, marital property and assets are divided equitably, in a fair and reasonable way to both parties. Before negotiating a settlement, you need a complete inventory of everything you and your spouse earned or accumulated during your time together.
Start with your home, car, household furnishings, antiques, artwork, or other collectibles. Consider business interests, get statements for all bank accounts, real estate, and investments, and tally up marital debts.
- Consider potential hidden assets.
Your spouse may hide marital assets to avoid being subject to equitable division. Review bank statements, prior tax returns, and paystubs to locate hidden income or investments. Do an online property search as well, and be alert for items your spouse may have attempted to sell or transfer to others.
- Get your fair share of retirement benefits.
Your retirement plans were likely tied to your spouse. If you get a Tampa divorce, get your fair share of any pensions, 401(k), IRA, or other benefits. Keep in mind you must request a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) and need to consider rollovers or other strategies to avoid unnecessary tax penalties. You may also be entitled to a share of your spouse’s Social Security retirement benefits.
- Get the spousal and child support you are entitled to.
If you have children, each party’s income, assets, and your child custody arrangements are all factors that influence child support payments. If you made significantly less than your spouse or sacrificed your career for theirs, you may be entitled to Tampa spousal support or alimony payments, which can help protect your financial security while you make a fresh start.
Request A Consultation Today With Our Tampa Divorce Lawyer
Bubley & Bubley, P.A. provides the caring, comprehensive legal service you need during a Tampa divorce. We take the legal actions needed to protect your rights, with the goal of getting you the maximum amount in your final divorce order. Contact our office today and request a consultation with our Tampa divorce lawyer.
Sources:
hillsclerk.com/Court-Services/Family-Law/Divorce-and-Annulment
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html
blog.ssa.gov/ex-spouse-benefits-and-how-they-affect-you/
