Video recording is a simple and effective way to capture the condition and location of your belongings. It can also provide evidence of any damage or missing items that may occur after you leave. Video recording can also help you estimate the value of your assets, especially if you have receipts, appraisals, or other documents to support your claims.
You should video the home and contents as soon as possible, preferably before you or your spouse move out. You should use a high-quality camera or smartphone and make sure the date and time are visible on the screen. You should also have a witness with you, such as a friend or family member who can verify what you are recording.
You should video the exterior of the home, including the front, back, and sides, as well as any landscaping, garage, shed, or other structures. You should then move inside and video each room in detail. You should capture every item in the room, including furniture, appliances, electronics, artwork, jewelry, clothing, books, etc. You should also open drawers, closets, cabinets, and safes to show what is inside them. You should narrate what you are recording and describe any relevant features or issues, such as brand names, model numbers, serial numbers, purchase dates, prices, defects, damages, etc.
You should save the video file in a secure location, such as a cloud service or an external hard drive. You should also make copies of the video and give them to your lawyer or trusted person.
Videoing the home and contents can help you protect your rights and interests in a divorce. It can help you: - Prove ownership and value of your assets - Identify assets that your spouse tries to hide - Prevent or resolve disputes over property division - Since you may not be able to enter the home again a video may help you compile a list of personal property that you want to receive from the home. - Reduce legal fees and court time Videoing the home and contents is a simple but powerful tool that can make your divorce process easier and smoother. However, you should always consult with a qualified divorce lawyer before you take any action regarding your marital property. A lawyer can advise you on the best way to document your assets and protect your legal rights.
]]>- Don't make rash decisions. Divorce can trigger a lot of emotions, such as anger, sadness, guilt, or fear. However, you should not let these emotions cloud your judgment and make you act impulsively. For example, don't move out of the marital home without consulting a lawyer, don't quit your job or start a new relationship, don't give up your rights or agree to anything without understanding the consequences. Instead, take some time to calm down and think things through before making any major decisions.
-Don’t fail to tell your spouse if you want to reconcile. You should get divorced if you know it is the right decision for you. If you have reservations about getting divorced then take the time to explore your feelings and figure out what you really want. If you want to reconcile, you need to discuss this with your spouse and possibly a therapist. You should not regret failing to explore reconciliation.
- Don't involve your children in the conflict. Divorce can be hard on children, especially if they witness their parents fighting or badmouthing each other. You should not use your children as pawns or messengers in your divorce, or try to turn them against your spouse. Instead, you should reassure your children that they are loved and supported by both parents, and that the divorce is not their fault. You should also cooperate with your spouse on co-parenting issues and respect their role in your children's lives.
- Don't hide or waste assets. Divorce involves dividing your marital property and debts, which can be a complex and contentious process. You should not try to hide or waste any assets that belong to the marital estate, such as transferring money to a secret account, spending excessively on unnecessary items, or destroying or damaging property. This can be considered fraud and can result in legal penalties and an unfavorable outcome in your divorce settlement. Instead, you should disclose all your assets and debts honestly and accurately, and try to preserve the value of your marital estate.
-Don’t fail to tell the truth. Lying in Court constitutes the crime of perjury. If you are prosecuted, it could result in criminal penalties including jail. Even if there is no criminal prosecution, a finding by a judge that you were not truthful can result in the judge ruling against you in many contested issues. Failing to tell the truth almost always results in higher legal costs and more acrimonious proceedings. Part of telling the truth is filling out all documents completely and honestly. In particular, makes sure your financial statement is complete and accurate.
- Don't ignore professional advice. Divorce can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if you are not familiar with the legal system and the financial implications. You should not try to handle everything on your own or rely on hearsay or online sources. Instead, you should seek professional advice from qualified experts, such as lawyers, accountants, therapists, or mediators. They can help you understand your rights and obligations, protect your interests, and guide you through the divorce process.
]]>