Taking the Big Step; Financial Independence

Separating yourself from your husband financially is as big a step as separating yourself from him physically or legally. When endeavoring to create such a separation you must do so with care and consciousness. The manner of your financial separation could largely impact the outcome of your legal separation. (Insert link to 

Importance of Organizing Financial Records During a Virginia Divorce

Start by separately filing the expenses and deposits of your joint and individual accounts. The joint account that you share with your estranged husband will address the current household needs such as bills, mortgage payments and childcare, but your individual account will serve a separate purpose.

Keep a clear record of all individual spending and earning. Be meticulously clear in your spending patterns. If possible, keep an outline of all expenses according to need. Categories in this outline could include transportation, education, or counseling.

This clear map of your costs of living is endlessly helpful in a Virginia divorce. Family court judges can base decisions in marital and financial awards-including Virginia spousal support-on this documentation. A judge may even decide that you are not in a financial position to pay for your lawyer's fees and require that your husband assist you with the payment of said fees. 

By staying organized and keeping careful documentation, you can provide your Virginia divorce lawyer with important information that could impact the division of shared property and the amount of spousal support.

Throughout your Virginia divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce lawyers at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and ensuring that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.