Divorce Decree Finally In Hand? Here's What Else You Need To Take Care Of
Posted on: 12 April 2017
One of the most difficult things to go through in life is a divorce... and not just because of the emotional aspect of a failed marriage. When you finally get the divorce decree in your hands, it's time to make sure all other documented connections to your ex-spouse are severed. Here are a few examples.
Vehicle documents
The registration and insurance for each of the marital vehicles may need to be changed. You'll also need to change the titles to any vehicles that are owned outright. If the vehicles still have liens on them from the lender, you'll need to make sure the lender knows of the divorce so they can handle any necessary documentation and procedures. While you may have a specific time frame in which your state allows for you to handle these types of matters, it's better to be safe than sorry and get them taken care of as soon as possible. That way, there's no confusion if either of you get into an accident or try to sell a vehicle in the meantime.
Emergency contact information
Sit down and think about all the people and places that you and your ex-spouse have each other listed for emergency contacts, which is common for employers, schools, and doctor's offices. If either of you have had a number of medical issues in the past, this may mean you'll need to go to each medical office and changing your emergency contact information at the receptionist's desk. Keep in mind that anything having to do with any children from the marriage should remain as is with both of you listed as emergency contacts.
Wills and trusts
Last but definitely not least, change your last will and testament and any trusts you may have. If you plan on leaving your estate to your children, it's perfectly fine to designate your ex-spouse as the guardian of the estate until your children are old enough to handle the money. However, it's a good idea to stipulate that in the will. If you and your spouse were both named in a trust that a loved one had established, you may want to consider hiring a wills and trust lawyer to discuss how the divorce decree will impact the trust based on your state and local laws as well as the stipulations in the trust itself.
Speak with your divorce lawyer and a wills and trust lawyer like http://www.linskylaw.com for more helpful advice on severing all ties of the marriage.
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