The breakdown of a relationship can be difficult and confusing for both parties involved. If you are recently separated from your partner, it may be valuable for you to consider the following:
- Has the end of the relationship been communicated to your partner?
- Is there any possibility that the relationship will resume?
- Have you taken note of the date you and your partner became separated?
- Have you discussed with your partner who will remain living in the matrimonial home? To apply for a divorce, notwithstanding exceptions, the law requires that you and your spouse must live separately and apart for a minimum of 12 months.
- You may consider changing passwords to your computer, email account or any other online forum you may use. The reason you would consider doing so Is so that your partner does not see any correspondence pertaining to your potential separation.
- If there are children involved, you may consider having a discussion with your partner about who the children will live with and who they will spend time with as well as their financial support. The best interests of the child are paramount.
- You may consider redirecting your mail if you are moving out of the matrimonial home.
- Do you have a bank account in your sole name, if not you may want to consider creating one so that you can utilize the account for your day to day expenses and legal fees?
- If you and your partner have any joint bank accounts, you should discuss the funds that remain in these accounts and you may also wish to consider changing the accounts so both of you are required to sign to withdraw funds from the account.
- If you have any joint credit cards with your partner, you should discuss the balance owing, if any, and consider closing or freezing these accounts.
- You may consider changing the beneficiaries of your superannuation policy or life insurance policy and updating your Will or Power of Attorney to correspond with your current wishes.
There are a lot of factors to consider during separation and the matters set out above are by no means a comprehensive list. Having a good family lawyer advising you can relieve some of the stress involved. To find out more, contact Kydon Segal Lawyers today.