Switch to ADA Accessible Theme
Close Menu

After Your Divorce Is Finalized, There Is Still Much to Be Done

DistWoman

As attorneys who regularly counsel clients here in West Palm Beach on how to protect themselves and what to plan for while going through divorce, many people do not realize that we also have to make sure that our clients complete certain actions even after they obtain their divorce judgment. However, these actions are vital in order to ensure that your divorce is complete and you move forward with a future whereby you are financially stable and free to make decisions as you see fit.

Identifying Documents & Account Changes

First and foremost, you will want to make changes to your main identifying documents, such as your driver’s license, passport, social security card, etc. Once these are changed, it is easier to make additional changes to bank accounts, credit cards, homeowner’s title, registration and auto insurance for your car, etc.

Estate-Related Documents

You also want to follow through on changes to documents related to estate planning, such as your will and beneficiary forms for any brokerage accounts, life insurance policies, and retirement accounts (401(k)s, IRAs, pensions, etc.). This also includes documents that designate who will make major decisions on your behalf, should you become incapacitated, including your power of attorney and healthcare surrogate. Consult your attorney to make sure that any changes you make to estate documents conform to your settlement agreement.

The Family Home

You also want to make changes to what is likely your most valuable asset: the family home. Whether you are continuing to own your home with your ex, selling it, buying out their interest, etc., you will want to make sure that the relevant changes are made to the title and deed to reflect your new status. You do not want to find yourself having to deal with your ex still being on the deed when you go to sell your home 10-15 years later.

Mandatory Obligations in Divorce Decree

Also make sure that you sit down with your attorney and understand all of your mandatory obligations pursuant to the settlement agreement, such as any property that needs to be transferred in a timely manner, child support, time sharing and parenting plans, alimony/spousal support, etc. Keep in mind that, if you need to transfer any portion of a retirement plan or pension, you and your attorney will need to file a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO).

Contact Our Florida Family Law Attorney for Assistance

Family law issues can be emotionally taxing. However, if you work with an experienced, organized divorce attorney, everything is handled as it should be, and you can move forward with your life, as it should be. Contact our experienced West Palm Beach divorce attorney at the office of William Wallshein, P.A. today to find out more about our services and how we can help ensure your divorce is taken care of.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn