The Benefits of Filing Divorce First and the Role of a Suffolk County Lawyer

The divorce rate in New York is 2.2 per 1,000 population (As of 2021). This statistic provides a snapshot of the marital landscape in the state, suggesting that for every 1,000 residents, approximately 2.2 of them experience a dissolution of marriage. New York comprises 62 counties, each contributing its own divorce rate including Suffolk County – 8.7% to the state’s overall average.  

In the realm of divorce proceedings (contested or uncontested), the decision of who files first can have a significant impact on the entire divorce process.  While it may seem procedural, the advantage of being the first to file for divorce cannot be overstated. This can set the tone for negotiations, influence court decisions, and may even affect the relationship with your soon-to-be ex.

The decision of filing for divorce is huge and emotional in one’s life. If you are in such a situation, there are several advantages to being the first to file. Here are some of the key benefits:

Benefits Of Filing Divorce First:  

• Setting the Agenda One of the primary benefits of filing for divorce first is the ability to set the agenda for the divorce process. This means that by filing the legal action, you set the pace and context of the negotiation that will have to take place. This gives you the advantage of setting the pace in the determination of crucial issues including child custody. If you are going through a child custody case, hiring a lawyer can be beneficial in several ways. Read this: Child Custody Lawyer Suffolk County

• Psychological Advantage From a psychological perspective, filing for a divorce first is beneficial in some ways apart from the legal implications. This helps convey to your spouse that you are serious about the divorce process and pursuing it, which may cause the other party to respond instead of initiating the process. This can be quite beneficial where there are fears of being retaliated against or cases of staking time on the divorce process.

• Legal Precedence From a legal point of view, being the petitioner (the party who files for divorce) can offer certain advantages. In some jurisdictions, the petitioner may have the opportunity to present their case first in court, which can set a precedent for how subsequent issues are addressed. It can be particularly beneficial if there are contentious issues that require early resolution or if there are concerns about the other party’s cooperation.

• Control Over Information Filing for divorce first also means having control over who goes first in presenting details or even a means of sharing information first. The petitioner may explain their side of the story and point out what they require before he or she is given a chance to defend himself or herself.

• Strategic Planning Filing for a divorce without first consulting your partner is usually a well-thought-out decision. It enables both you and your lawyer to be ready in terms of paperwork, goal setting, and charting a logical approach to the process. This can put you in better standing when dealing with negotiations and or trials because your interests are well protected right from the onset.

• Avoiding Reactive Decisions Filing first would cut the chances of being caught off guard when responding to your spouse’s actions or requests. It also means that you do not have to play defense constantly in negotiations; instead, you are proactive in the process. It can also reduce the possibility of finding oneself unprepared for some legal tactics or a sudden shift in your spouse’s stance.

How To Start A Divorce Proceeding? 

To start a divorce proceeding in Suffolk County (New York), you need to go through some preliminary steps:

• • Determine residency
  • Choose the type of divorce
  • File the divorce papers
  • Serve the papers
  • Wait for a response
  • Attend court hearings

The process for divorce may be complicated, and it is highly advisable to contact an experienced attorney for more information and help. For starting divorce proceedings Suffolk County New York , read this- Suffolk County Starting a Divorce Proceeding.

The Importance of Hiring A Suffolk County Lawyer for Filing Divorce First

Divorce is one of the most critical decisions one will ever make in life, and it is also highly emotional. While you might want to handle all this alone without legal advice, there are multiple benefits to consulting a Suffolk County lawyer while filing for divorce. 

• Provides Expert Guidance in Legal Procedure : Divorce laws differ from state to state and can be very complex. A Suffolk County lawyer has expertise in family law and will help you go through exactly what steps are involved in your jurisdiction. He ensures all documents that need to be filed are prepared, all deadlines are met, and all legal procedures are adhered to, hence minimizing the chances of error that might have caused the case to be delayed.

• Protecting Your Rights and Interests: Going through a divorce can be challenging and disturbing without having a practiced Suffolk County divorce lawyer on your side. They work to look after your rights throughout the divorce process. They will advocate for your interests in every aspect concerning the division of assets, child custody, child support, child visitation, alimony, and distribution of debts.

• Handling Complex Issues: Divorce cases often involve complex issues like the division of property, allocation of debts, child custody arrangements, etc. In such matters, an experienced Suffolk County attorney will help you understand the implications that may arise from your decisions and guide you through Negotiations.

• Navigating Court Proceedings: If your divorce goes to court, having a lawyer is essential. They know the procedures of the court, the rules of evidence, and how to present your case effectively. A lawyer can represent you at hearings and present your arguments clearly and persuasively.

Contact Experienced Divorce Attorney Shawn Kassman   

If you have divorce-related questions or want more information about divorce (contested or uncontested), you can call attorney Shawn Kassman at 631-232-9479 (toll-free 888-545-2944) or fill out our online intake form. We are a Suffolk County Divorce Lawyer in Central Islip, New York. We are available 24  hours a day.

Need Legal Assistance? Contact Us Today! 631-232-9479, Email: info@centralisliplawyer.com

Whether you’re dealing with Criminal Law, Divorce, Family Law, Estate Administration, Real Estate Law, Traffic Tickets, Real Estate & Landlord Tenant Law, Traffic Violations, DWI / DUI – Driving While Intoxicated, Driving With Suspended License issues, or need expert legal guidance throughout Suffolk County and Nassau County, the Law Office of Shawn Kassman is here to help. Visit us at: 83 Carleton Ave., Central Islip, NY.