Hi- I met my wife last year in 2004 and we got married a couple months
later.  It's regrettable that we made such a quick decision.  After
spending the last 7 months together it seems that we will not be happy
if we stay together because of our conflicting personalities.  So now
we are pondering divorce, but I would like your thoughts on the
financial consequences.

Here are some background to the situation:

-My wife is an illegal alien and since our marriage we've applied with
the USCIS to have her become a permanent legal resident.  The
application is still in the pending stage.

-We have no kids, and she's not pregnant

-I have a house that I bought in 2002- we've lived together for about
7 months in the house.

-Excluding my car I don't have properties with a combined total of over $30K

-We live in California


So what do I stand to lose if we get a divorce?  Thanks.

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Clarification of Question by trevergran-ga on 09 Feb 2005 15:14 PST

There would be profit in the house if sold, but most of the
appreciation was attained before the marriage.

Any profit in the house?

If the house and car are in your name only, there is a chance that you
wouldn't stand to lose much.

I would suggest a free consultation with a lawyer that specializes in
family law. Most give the first visit for free.

Steph53