The COVID-19 crisis has left many families spending more time together than ever before, and for those with relationship issues at home, that can be a problem. If you are going through a divorce, or if you are seeking to protect your assets through a pre- or post-nuptial agreement, you may have questions about what to do next.
Act Quickly to Cope with Financial Problems
The most common problem suffered throughout the country was the sudden lack of retirement funds. In many families, these accounts comprise the largest assets in their possession, and losing them means that splitting them up could be devastating to their future. When times are tough, more people sue. Without properly filing the right paperwork, you could be at risk of losing your assets during a family law dispute.
Marital Agreements
Pre- and post-nuptial agreements provide a way for each spouse to protect their individual assets. With the full agreement of both parties, these documents can help each person to outline what will lawfully belong to them should they divorce. This is especially helpful in situations where couples may have lost value in joint assets, since a postnuptial agreement can limit the liability of one of the spouses.
Delaying Divorce through Separation
Another option some couples pursue is to legally separate. Unlike a divorce where there is a set date by which all action must be finalized, a separation allows couples to reach agreements about how to deal with custody, child support, and alimony before making anything official.
When Divorce Has to Happen
It's possible that you have no other option than to go through with a divorce. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, this will be a little more difficult. Most courts throughout New York are closed except for emergency cases. If you must divorce, the best way to do it would be by contacting a Dutchess County family law attorney and taking care of things virtually (through videoconferencing).
You can still file for divorce and move forward in the right direction for your family, but if any litigation is to occur in the meantime, it will likely have to wait. Still have questions about your family troubles during the COVID-19 outbreak? Call the Law Office of Dennis R. Vetrano, Jr., LLC for more information.
Call (845) 605-4330 or contact us online today.