Despite how common filing for a divorce may seem, the practice is actually a huge undertaking. If you are thinking about asking your spouse for a divorce, or if you know one is coming, you can prepare yourself for what is ahead and protect your best interests by being as proactive as possible before the divorce happens.
While it may feel insensitive and selfish to plan for a divorce, especially if your partner is unaware, you have to keep in mind that a divorce is a tough legal process. If your emotions lead the way, the divorce can take a crippling toll on both you and your spouse.
Here are some ways that you can prepare yourself for an upcoming divorce, as an attorney, can explain.
Consult a Family Law Attorney
Booking a consultation with a qualified and seasoned family law attorney is in your best interest. Despite the fact that you have not filed for a divorce yet, the attorney can go over your unique situation and provide insight on anything you need to do before you move forward. They can also alert you to potential issues that you may have not even considered, such as retirement accounts, healthcare coverage, and educational expenses. No two divorces are the same, so chatting with a divorce lawyer about your specific needs can help you get better prepared.
Prep the Paperwork
Any divorce process needs thorough and detailed documentation. To save yourself from the stress of scrambling to get the necessary paperwork in order at the last minute, be proactive about collecting all of the needed paperwork for the divorce. This will include copies of all bank accounts, properties, investments, and other assets, in addition to tax information, medical coverage, marriage certificates, and more.
Organize Your Finances
Well before the divorce process starts, you should be taking stock of all of your finances. Thoroughly go over your account information, retirement funds, investments, and more. This will include anything that you and your spouse keep separate from each other. You will need to know exactly where you financially stand because once the divorce filings start, you will need your own checking and savings accounts. You should also open a credit card account that your partner cannot access so that you can have financial privacy and the opportunity to improve your credit independently.
Prepare Your Kids
If you have children, you need to prepare them for the change that is coming. Even before the divorce process begins, you should ensure that your children are emotionally stable and happy. Coordinate outings with their friends, help them with their homework, and encourage that they participate in extracurricular activities. You can also educate yourself on how to properly talk to your children about divorce and methods to make it easier for them.
Going through a divorce can be difficult. Prepare yourself with a qualified and experienced family law attorney.