Bill and Melinda Gates’ divorce has been making headlines for many reasons including that as a multibillionaire, he’s one of the world’s richest men and that they did not have a prenuptial agreement. But for anyone considering divorce who has a complex divorce case, there are lessons to be learned from Melinda Gates’ divorce team.
What Is A Divorce Team?
A divorce team is made up of professionals who support you and help you navigate your divorce. The members of a divorce team often include:
- Your attorney
- Financial advisor
- Child psychiatrist, psychologist, or other mental health expert
- Divorce counselor or coach
Recent headlines show that Melinda also hired tax and estate planning attorneys as part of her divorce team:
“Experts said it was “most unusual for trust and estate lawyers’ names to be listed on a divorce filing” and that the move could mean French Gates may want to change the amount of money that their kids inherit.”
Who Should You Include On Your Divorce Team?
Your attorney can advise you on which professionals you should consult as part of your divorce team. In addition to the divorce team members mentioned above, your divorce team might include:
- Priest, Rabbi or Minister: You may want to include a member of the clergy as part of your divorce support team if there are religious implications if you and your spouse divorce.
- Private Investigator: If there are claims you need evidence to substantiate for your divorce or custody negotiations.
- Financial Forensic Specialist: If you believe your spouse is hiding funds or other assets or financial information from you.
- Appraiser: If you have valuable assets that need to be valued or appraised as part of the settlement process.
- Realtor: If your home or vacation or investment property needs to be sold or appraised.
Divorce Consultation: Protect What Matters Most
If you are considering divorce and want more information about how to protect yourself and your family if you end your marriage, you should schedule a divorce consultation. During a pre-divorce consultation, an attorney can assess your situation, explain the divorce process to you and give you impartial advice on your case. At this point, you have not hired a lawyer: this is a consultation to understand your legal situation in the event you do decide to divorce in the future.
A divorce consultation will cover:
- The pros and cons of divorce in New Jersey
- Are you eligible for alimony?
- Will you get custody of your children?
- How much will you receive for child support?
- What will happen to your business?
- Can your ex-spouse move your children out of state?
New Jersey Attorneys
Divorce has complicated legal, financial, and emotional issues. Zeigler Law Group, LLC is a divorce and family law firm serving all of New Jersey. Sonya K. Zeigler is a skilled attorney and is well-equipped to help individuals navigate the complex family legal system of divorce, child custody, and property distribution. The legal team at Zeigler Law Group, LLC is committed to securing a bright future for the clients and families they serve, through guided insight and zealous advocacy, and fighting to protect what they have worked so hard to earn.
Contact the experienced and caring attorneys at Zeigler Law Group, LLC today at 732-361-4827 for a divorce consultation.