Sebring, FL Divorce Law Firms & Lawyers

Do not sign or agree to take money from a thrift savings plan, and do not feel compelled or coerced to do so.  Once a divorce has been filed there is a standing order issued by most courts  that neither party should liquidate, dispose, or transfer marital assets. Once martial assets, and especially liquid cash type assets are depleted, it is impossible to get them back.  Marital assets should only be liquidated if absolutely necessary and no other source of funds is available.  My guess is that he plans to pay his lawyer with the money, or divert the money in an effort to prevent the court from giving you half.  I further would venture a guess that his lawyer is unaware of that he is trying to get you to do this.  Most lawyers would advise their clients not to take such action or deplete marital assets.  You should instead spend you time on preparing the answer and counter petition that must be filed. I recommend you get the advice of a lawyer to prepare the answer and counter petition. 

You will need to proceed with filing for dissolution and address custody and parenting time issues as part of that. As for the baby's name, if he does not challenge paternity and requests that his name be included, the court would likely order that the baby's last name be hyphenated. So at the hospital you can name the child as you wish, but just understand that if he pushes the issue later on, the baby's name could be ordered to be changed and hyphenated.

You would have two options rather than retaining an attorney to represent you throughout the divorce process: (1) retain an attorney as a Consultant - that person would be able to walk you through the process, required paperwork, and your rights; (2) together you can work with a Mediator - that person will assist both you to reach a full agreement on all issues and avoid court involvement completely. Working with a mediator is usually less expensive and time consuming - as well as the opportunity to make your own decisions rather than having a judge tell you what you need to do.