When it comes time to divide property in a divorce, some assets are more painless to separate than others. Cash and proceeds from property sales are pretty straightforward when handled by a professional. However, the picture becomes less clear when couples start wading into retirement plans. Decisions about whether to liquidate employer-sponsored plans can cause friction – do you cash out immediately and pay the hefty early-withdraw fees? Do you leave the account as it is and simply hope that everyone gets their share when it’s time? These decisions are fraught under the best, most cooperative circumstances. Throw in any discord around divorce, and the choice becomes more complicated than ever.
Fortunately, a legal solution to this potential conflict is the qualified domestic relations order (QDRO). Essentially, this order states that one spouse is entitled to a portion of the other spouse's retirement account. A QDRO outlines the percentage or actual dollar amount the “non-participant” spouse should receive. Furthermore, a thorough QDRO will clearly state the number of payments the non-participant will receive and when they will receive those payments.
The trend of virtual meetings has created an attractive option for divorcing couples who need QDROs. Taking these meetings online offers couples the benefits of mediation and the distance of meeting virtually. In addition, virtual law practices offering online QDRO services allow couples to stay out of the courtroom, lowering costs and allowing flexibility and comfort around meeting times. Five benefits of meeting online include:
Accessibility
Every divorce is different, and a couple's tolerance for being in the same room can vary widely! Rather than having to sit around a table with the person they have recently split from, couples can meet online from their own space. Virtual law practices are accessible from anywhere clients have a computer, and that flexibility makes organizing a QDRO more accessible than ever.
Convenience
It’s common for divorced people to move away from one another during or after a divorce. Furthermore, with assets in flux, one party may find themselves unexpectedly without a car, or in a new city without a means of regular transportation. In-person meetings can get complicated quickly, especially when there is tension over who is closer to the attorney's office. It’s impossible to argue that there is a more convenient way of attending meetings for QDRO than simply logging on to a computer, or even joining on a smartphone. The convenience of virtual law practice QDROs can go a long way in reducing friction around this division of crucial assets.
Comfort
Divorce is hard. Under the most amicable circumstances there is stress, and unfortunately, most divorce is not rainbows and sunshine. However, knowing that you can make significant headway in completing your divorce without having to leave home is a huge comfort to those suffering during the struggle of a divorce. Negotiations are faster and more productive when all parties are as comfortable and relaxed as possible.
Cost
Meeting virtually saves money, even if it is just around travel. Furthermore, most virtual law practice QDRO attorneys have transparent pricing, allowing clients to plan their finances without fearing hidden fees cropping up once their services are completed.
Safety
Virtual meetings can bolster feelings of safety for couples who feel threatened around one another. When both parties are calm and confident in their immediate physical security, they are better equipped to negotiate and cooperate in drawing up a QDRO.
Choosing to use a virtual law practice for QDROs has many benefits. However, the most important aspect of an online practice will always be the qualified lawyer doing the work. Anne N. Pastrana has 10+ years of experience drafting QDROs. With empathy, patience, and the highest standards for accuracy, Anne can draw up airtight QDROs in as little as two weeks. No matter how complex, you can trust that your QDRO will be created with fidelity and accuracy by Anne N. Pastrana, PLLC. Get in touch today to schedule your virtual consultation.
