Going through a divorce is an unfortunate situation that doesn’t have to be overwhelming. As long as you take the necessary steps, the process will be streamlined and less stressful.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to prepare for divorce in five straightforward tips.
1. Consider Counseling Before Choosing Divorce
Choosing to divorce depends on a wide variety of circumstances that are often unsolvable. However, if you’re in the midst of an impending divorce, consider marriage counseling as a final effort to mend your relationship.
Marriage counseling offers guidance on marital issues, such as lack of communication. Having a third-party mediator often helps put marriage issues into perspective. Counseling is about 75% effective for the average couple, so it’s worth a shot.
2. Organize Your Finances and Legal Documents
The first thing you need to do is gather your important documents and store them in a safe place outside of the home you share with your spouse. You’ll need your legal documents for a divorce court proceeding, and you’ll need your financial documents to establish your life outside of your relationship.
Here’s a list of the most important documents to locate:
- Marriage Certificate
- Birth Certificate
- Passport
- Social Security Card
- Trust and Property Documents
- Recent Mortgage and Credit Card Statements
- Insurance Documents
Be sure to gather specific financial information, too. Write down your personal net worth, savings balance, and debts for future reference. While you may not need all of this information immediately, it’s best to collect this information sooner rather than later.
3. Get a Great Divorce Attorney
A divorce attorney will be your lifeline during your divorce preparation and will help you build your case. It’s vital to find the best divorce attorney who has plenty of experience and a great track record.
Besides defending you, divorce attorneys also help divide assets and debt among the couple. They also help defend custody arguments and try to ensure the best outcome for their client.
4. Document Your Marriage Experience
It’s helpful to provide as much information about your marriage as possible during your divorce, especially if the separation involves a custody battle. This information is easy to forget during hearings, so try to write down as much detail as possible.
Details to record include communication issues, parenting details, and how you split spousal duties. Your divorce attorney may request additional details for their defense.
5. Research Your Next Steps
As the divorce proceeding is in full swing, it’s essential to stay focused and ensure your well-being is guaranteed once the process is done. Take time to figure out your specific situation and ask yourself some important questions:
- Where will you live?
- Will you be able to afford to live on your own?
- Do you have friends or family who are willing to assist you temporarily?
- Will you need to open up your own banking and credit card accounts?
Research depends on your situation and the results of the court proceedings. Consult with your divorce attorney if you’re having trouble solidifying your next steps.
Knowing How to Prepare for Divorce the Right Way
Now that you know how to prepare for divorce, don’t forget to care for yourself during this overwhelming process. Your attorney, as well as family and friends, will help you cope and handle getting ready for divorce.
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