This is the next article in my discussion on ending a marriage after a spouse has been deported. My last article discussed when deportation may make Florida spouses eligible for an annulment. If one can show that they would not have entered into the marriage had they been aware of any immigration issues, then an annulment may be possible. An experienced attorney can assist you with determining whether you may pursue such an action. In this article, I will be discussing actions which a spouse should typically take once a divorce is finalized. If you are in need of assistance, then contact my office to speak with a Melbourne lawyer.
If one changed their last name after a marriage, then they are able to have their married name restored as part of a divorce. Once the Judge signs a Decree, restoring the maiden name, then it is necessary to file the appropriate paperwork with governmental agencies. These include the Department of Social Security, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and more. These agencies will typically require a copy of the Decree and completed paperwork to process the change. Changing one’s name with governmental entities can be quite important, as it can prevent future problems.
If the parties had a child together, then it is important that the child’s school be provided with a copy of the Decree. Say, for example, the parties had a child in the first grade and the husband is deported. The Court grants a Divorce Decree, giving the mother sole legal and physical custody of the child. It is important for the school to be aware that, should the father re-enter the Country, he does not have legal authority to remove the child from school. This can help to prevent child abduction and a range of other problems.
A third and important step is to ensure the closure of any accounts that are in the name of both parties. Say, as another example, that the parties have a joint credit card. If the deported spouse continues to use the card in another country, then this can negatively impact the credit score of the spouse who remains in the US. Severing all financial ties helps to a) protect the remaining spouse from negative credit results and b) protecting the remaining spouse from having to pay debts incurred by the other. The Decree will typically include language permitting the remaining spouse to refinance debts, such as auto loans, into their name only.
If you have questions about the logistics of navigating life post-divorce, then contact our office today for an initial consultation. I am a Melbourne divorce lawyer who solely devotes her practice to the handling of family law. My firm understands that no two situations are the same and we will work to protect your interests. We look forward to speaking with you. We also serve those in Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.