Once your Pasadena divorce judgment is entered, you'll probably be eager to head out of the courtroom and get on with your life. However, there are still some important post-divorce steps that you will need to take.
The following is a brief checklist of common tasks that often need to be completed after a divorce is finalized. Not all items may apply to you, but they should provide a starting point for organizing your personal "to-do" list.
- Execute a quitclaim need to transfer ownership of the marital home to the appropriate spouse.
- Change the titles for your car and other motor vehicles to reflect the ownership distribution noted in the divorce decree.
- Make sure your name has been removed from loans that are no longer your legal responsibility.
- Make sure a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) has been prepared to handle the distribution of retirement funds.
- Set up automatic withholding of child support from your paycheck, if necessary.
- If you've changed your name as the result of your divorce, obtain a new Social Security card and driver's license.
- If you're moving, complete all of the necessary change of address paperwork.
- Open a bank account in your own name.
- Obtain credit in your own name.
- Obtain health insurance, if you were previously covered under your spouse's policy.
- Change the beneficiary on your life insurance policy, unless this is not permitted under the terms of your divorce decree.
- Write a new will.
One thing you don't need to do immediately is rush back into the dating scene. Well meaning friends and family members might be itching to set you up with someone new, but it's important to take the time to heal emotionally after your divorce. Don't feel pressured to begin a new relationship until you're truly ready.
How Can We Help?
Please call our office at (626) 683-8113 or email us at info@PasadenaLawOffice.com if you are in need of legal assistance relating to your Pasadena divorce. Our skilled Pasadena divorce attorneys are equipped to handle matters relating to child support, alimony, division of property, and other common divorce concerns.