Monday, September 29, 2008

Do You Know What Your Divorce Rights Are?

It's important that you are aware of your divorce rights if you are
going through a divorce or you are planning to get a divorce. Going
through a divorce can be difficult and unsettling, but it's so important
that you know your duties and rights so you can make sure you get the
benefits you deserve.

Be aware that each person has rights. First of all, it is important that
you realize that each person in the relationship has divorce rights. You
have rights and your spouse has rights as well. Once you realize this,
the whole process will be a bit easier for you. So, remember that you
each have rights and take the time to learn what these rights really
are. This is not going to be a one way street for either of you.

Your rights may vary. Of course while both of you do have divorce
rights, it is important to realize that these rights may vary. Depending
on the state that you live in, the divorce rights that you have can
vary. So, it is important that you find out what kinds of rights are
available to you in the state that you live in. But you need to file for
divorce in the state in which you reside, you may not file in a
different state just because they may have laws which are more
beneficial for you.

Although the divorce rights do vary in various states, you'll still find
that there are some common rights that are found in almost every state.
Here are a few of your common rights to be aware of.

* Property Distribution - One right that you have is property
distribution. However, the laws on the distribution of property are
going to vary from state to state. There are two different ways that the
property may be distributed: property community law or equitable
distribution law.

* Distribution of Debts - The distribution of debts is a right that you
have that you need to be aware of. The debts that you both have are
going to be divided up among both of you. Some states (but not all) may
differentiate between debts that were incurred when you were married and
the debts incurred by one or the other individually.

* Child Custody - Probably one of the most important divorce rights to
keep in mind is child custody. This is a right that you have. There can
be joint custody or sole custody. However, even if your spouse was to
get sole custody, unless you have a criminal record or you are
dangerous, you still have the right to see your kids, where the time
period you are allowed to spend time with them is determined by the
divorce court judge as part of the divorce proceedings.

* Alimony - Alimony is a right to be aware of as well. Depending on the
education, income, and lifestyle, alimony is the right that the person
being divorced has in this type of a situation. Again, laws vary from
state to state, but alimony is not automatic, and be sure to discuss
this with your divorce lawyer if you think you deserve it or actually
require it to live.

* Child Support - If one spouse gets custody of the children, then they
have the right to financial assistance. This is the right that the
custodial parent has. Typically the child must be under 18 and a full
time student, but again, the law varies from state to state.

These are just a few of the divorce rights that you have as you are
going through a divorce. Of course if you want to know all of your
rights, you should be sure to contact a good attorney to guide you in
the rights and options that you have as you go through a divorce.

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