Knowing the Process Inside and Out: 8 Steps to Take Before Getting a Divorce
Filing for divorce is a life-altering moment. Few acts we undertake in our relationships carry as much emotional weight. Nobody makes the decision lightly. But once decided, there are some things that need to be resolved before you can file the paperwork and begin the divorce proceedings.
These are the eight steps to undertake before you file your complaint with the courts. Some of these steps will help reduce the workload and ease the separation process, others will help ensure that you are making the right decision and prevent you later regretting your decision.
Be Certain This is What You Want
This may sound ridiculous. The very fact you are considering filing divorce likely reveals that there are some significant issues present in the marriage. However, the decision to get a divorce should not be undertaken lightly. To avoid any regrets, ensure that you have exhausted all avenues for reconciliation and are committed to beginning divorce proceedings.
Get Your Important Documents Together
The filing process requires that you submit several important documents to accompany your complaint. Gather the following to prevent any unnecessary delays:
· Both parties’ social security numbers
· Insurance policies
· Bank account numbers (including savings, checking, investment accounts and retirement accounts for both parties)
· Property deeds
· Vehicle titles
· Valuable item appraisals
· A property inventory
Hire an Attorney
One of the first questions among those seeking to end a marriage is: how much does a divorce cost? The unfortunate reality is that a divorce does not come cheap. But that doesn’t mean that you should skip out on an attorney.
An attorney will understand your goals and will fight your corner to ensure your goals are heard (and hopefully) met.
Make a Plan for Child Custody
If you have children, it pays to begin a discussion about child custody early. The court can settle the matter of custody for you; however, these may not be the best arrangement for both parents and the child. If an amicable solution can be reached before the case goes to court, you may be able to generate a better outcome for everyone.
Get Your Sales and Purchases in Order
In many states, once divorce proceedings have been initiated, both parties will be unable to make any large purchases or sales until the proceedings are over. If you need to dispose of any big-ticket items, make those sales before filing for divorce.
Reach Out to Your Support Network
Going through a divorce takes an emotional toll on everyone involved. Utilize your emotional support networks to stay grounded and balanced throughout the divorce process.
Work Out Your Living Situation
If you want to move out of the family home to be away from the spouse during the divorce proceedings, you may wish to make the necessary living arrangements before filing for divorce. Your behavior during the divorce proceedings will be under a microscope. If you think your spouse is likely to get under your skin and generate an emotive response, making alternative living arrangements could have a positive impact on your case.
Avoid Entering into a New Relationship
Even if you are separated from your spouse, technically, entering into a new relationship before securing a divorce is considered adultery. As a result, a judge may look unfavorably on a new relationship. Additionally, they may decide that any money you spent on the new partner came from the marital estate and require you to reimburse your spouse for the money spent. If possible, refrain from entering a new romantic partnership until the divorce proceedings are complete.
