How To Prepare for a Divorce in Ohio

Preparing for a divorce may seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance and support, it can also be an opportunity for a fresh start. Our team of experienced divorce attorneys at Wagner & Bloch can help you navigate this challenging time with confidence. 

Whether you need assistance in organizing your finances or protecting your parental rights, we are here to provide you with the knowledge and resources you need to succeed. With our support, you can move forward with a sense of empowerment and the assurance that your best interests are being represented throughout the process. 

Understanding the Divorce Process in Ohio

At Wagner & Bloch, we are experienced attorneys who take a detailed approach to solving difficult divorce cases. While mediation might make sense for some couples, it does not work for everyone. If that is the case for you and your spouse, traditional divorce might be the best option for you. If you are considering divorce, there are some things you will need to know before proceeding: 

• Residency Requirements: To be eligible for divorce in Ohio, at least one spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least six months before filing. Additionally, the individual must have been a resident of the county where they plan to file for at least 90 days.
• Property Division: As an equitable distribution state, any marital property will be divided between spouses equitably. However, this does not mean that the property will be divided equally. 
• Spousal Support: Spousal support is based on many factors including  the length of marriage, income and earning potential of each spouse, and the standard of living during the marriage. In Ohio, spousal support can also be awarded temporarily or permanently. 
• Child Support: Child support is calculated based on factors  like the incomes of both parents, spousal support, and the parenting schedule. 
• Custody: Ohio courts generally favor shared parenting whenever possible, meaning both parents share the rights and responsibilities of raising the child. However, if the court determines that shared parenting is not in the child's best interests, it may award sole custody to one parent.

Understanding Your Priorities and Setting Expectations for Your Ideal Divorce Outcome

In addition to making it easier for your attorney to provide strategic counsel, having a clear idea of your goals and expectations can also help you avoid getting sidetracked by non-critical issues during your divorce. By focusing on what is most important to you, such as a custody arrangement and parenting time schedule for your children, you can make more informed decisions throughout the process. 

Having a strategy in place that is aligned with your priorities can help you feel more in control of your divorce and lead to a better outcome for you and your family.

Getting Organized and Reducing Stress Before Filing For Divorce

Divorce is stressful, but there are ways that you can alleviate that stress even before filing for divorce. One step you can take to prepare for your divorce is organizing important documents and making sure all of your affairs are in order.

Start by gathering important documents such as wills, trusts, tax returns, bank statements, prenuptial agreements, and property deeds, before filing. Make sure to collect any documents related to insurance policies, retirement records, joint property, or debts as well.

With these documents in hand, your attorney can help you create an inventory of all your assets and debts, which will make it easier when this information is needed. 

How An Ohio Divorce Attorney Help Throughout The Divorce Process

Going into a divorce, having a clear picture of your goals and expectations can be helpful. However, it is also important to know what is and what is not possible under Ohio law. By working with an attorney, you will be able to understand the laws that will govern your divorce and how those laws may impact the outcome. A divorce attorney can help you set realistic goals and avoid possible disappointment at the conclusion of your divorce.

Though divorce can sometimes be emotional, approaching your divorce with a strategic and rational mindset will help you enter the process better prepared and more confident.

Contact our Cincinnati Divorce Attorneys Today

If you are considering a divorce in Ohio, you should seek the experienced counsel of a divorce attorney. At Wagner & Bloch, we'll help you understand the divorce laws in Ohio and how they may impact your case. Contact us today through our website or at (513) 751-4420 to get started.