Why You Should File for Divorce BEFORE the New Year Starts

In December, for those persons considering to file for a divorce, many times they will wait until January to file. However, there may be a good reason why you should file before the New Year starts.

It is important to know, that you can file in December, and you do not have to serve your spouse in December. You can file in December and then wait until January to serve your spouse with the divorce papers. In this manner, you get the benefit of filing early, yet, you do not have to upset the holiday season.

What are the potential benefits of filing in December and before the New Year:

1. Debts: For most debts, the amount of marital debt that is considered is determined as of the date of filing. The most common example is credit card debt. Credit card debt is a joint marital debt. So, no matter whose credit card it is, you most likely will owe 50% of the amount of credit card debt that existed as of the date of filing for a divorce. Once, you file for divorce, you most likely will not be responsible for any additional credit card debt that is incurred after the date of filing. Of course, there are many exceptions to this rule, but, you may benefit from filing in December to freeze the amount of credit card debt you are responsible for.
2. Valuation of Assets: The valuation of assets almost always changes. Whether or not an asset has a higher or lower current value may benefit you. You may want to file early to “lock-in” the valuation of an asset.
3. Changes in Income: When determining child support or spousal maintenance (alimony), the starting point is last year’s W2 or income. So, if you file in December, you first look at last year’s W2. If your income is less last year than this current year, you may benefit from filing in December.

David Badanes and the Badanes Law Office, P.C., have helped numerous clients in determining whether or not to file in December or in January. If you are contemplating getting a divorce or if you have been served divorce papers, contact David Badanes at 631-239-1702.

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