Butler Thiessen & Metzinger INC | Family Law Specialists

Focused, Dedicated, Determined since 1986 209-390-8829

Family Law

Family Law

Property Division

Property Division

Divorce

Divorce

Child Custody & Visitation

Child Custody & Visitation

Butler, Thiessen & Metzinger | Family Law Specialists

Focused, Dedicated, Determined since 1986
209-390-8829

Before You File For Divorce

Taking proactive measures before you file for divorce can provide many benefits and increase the likelihood that you will obtain a good outcome. If you are headed for divorce, it makes sense to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Butler, Thiessen & Metzinger, Inc. in Stockton is a team of highly experienced divorce attorneys who provide results-oriented representation. We can answer your questions about divorce and provide advice about the steps you can take to improve your position as you make the transition to the next stage of your life.

Call us today at 209-390-8829 to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.

Eight Key Tips To Keep In Mind

These are some of the things you should do and not do before you file for divorce:

1. Decide whether you or your spouse should leave your home — This may not be necessary if you and your spouse can get along. If there is a history of domestic abuse in your household or you fear it, either you or your spouse may have to leave.

2. Make copies of financial statements — Including bank accounts, brokerage accounts, and retirement accounts.

3. Make a list of inherited property — Under California’s community property laws, any property you have inherited belongs to you.

4. Don’t hide or transfer title to community property without telling your spouse — Courts do not look kindly on spouses who hide community property.

5. Don’t run up debts — Attempting to “punish” your spouse by charging items to your spouse’s credit cards or jointly held credit cards could backfire. You may end up having to pay those debts yourself.

6. Think about what you will say to your children — Divorce can be a highly stressful — and distressing — time for children. An attorney at our firm can provide advice and direct you to other resources regarding this important step.

7. Learn how to choose a family law attorney — All attorneys are not alike. At Butler, Thiessen & Metzinger, Inc., our experienced attorneys have different backgrounds and communication styles. Taking the time to find the attorney that’s right for you can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.

8. Reach out to family and friends — If you have grown apart from those you love, this is the time to reconnect with them. They can be an important source of emotional and practical support during and after your divorce.

Contact Our Lawyers

To schedule a consultation regarding your situation, call Butler, Thiessen & Metzinger, Inc. at 209-390-8829 or contact us online.