By Allison Schreiber Lee
There are many life changes that occur during a divorce, and there are some changs where it is essential that you tell your divorce attorney as soon as possible, to avoid making a financial mistake that cannot be undone.
- You lost your job or got a new job. A change of employment can have a significant impact on many aspects of a divorce, which can include the receipt or payment of spousal support and/or child support, and even the division of marital assets.
- You got a bonus you weren’t expecting. In Missouri, courts can take into account bonuses that individuals have received on a regular basis, when computing spousal and/or child support. A one-time bonus as a result of an unusual event, however, may be treated differently; so discussing the circumstances of that bonus with your attorney is important.
- You received an inheritance. Getting money via inheritance may be considered separate, non-marital property by courts in the division of assets, so you should be sure to discuss with your attorney what you are inheriting (real estate, accounts, jewelry, etc) and how that should best be treated to ensure it remains your separate property.
- You want to sell your house. In many jurisdictions there are restrictions on the sale or purchase of real estate during a divorce. Additionally selling your house before knowing where you want to move and how you will afford expenses post-move are topics that should be addressed well in advance of listing any real estate, even by agreement of the spouses.
To discuss your family law issue with one of our Lee & Decker Family Law attorneys, please call us at (314) 786-8668, or fill out the form on our website at www.leeanddecker.com.