Divorce can be a complicated situation. It can be hard to know where to start when you are thinking about separating from your spouse, and the impending life change can be hard to deal with. But before you go any further with the divorce process, here are some things you should do before you file.
1. Talk to a marriage counselor
The issues you are going through may be able to be dissolved with the help of a qualified, experienced marriage therapist. Even if you are not happy with the marriage, visiting a therapist will be able to remind you why you got married in the first place. You will also be able to look at the divorce with fresh eyes and figure out where everything went wrong.
If your marriage is past the breaking point and you don’t feel as if it can be fixed, a marriage therapist will be able to help you cope with the stress and the entire situation.
2. Contact a divorce lawyer
It is extremely important that you speak with a divorce lawyer in order to wrap your head around the situation. There are many questions to ask your divorce lawyer including details on an uncontested divorce, child custody, and the specifics on your divorce process. There is a lot to know about divorce in your specific state, and you will want to file everything right the first time to save headaches down the road.
3. Do not move out of the shared home with your spouse
This is crucial so you do not have to end up paying alimony or abandonment fees. Do not let your emotions get the most of you, and speak with your lawyer before you leave or else your divorce papers may look quite surprising.
4. If you have had an affair, consult with your lawyer before acknowledging it to your spouse
In some states, adultery is illegal and admission of an affair can have extreme consequences in the divorce process. Adultery can change the entire case, so it is a good idea to discuss with your lawyer before you go down the slippery slope.
5. Safeguard your assets
Take steps to secure your assets before the divorce process starts, in particular the ones you would like to use like a vehicle, antiques, family heirlooms, and bank accounts. Your lawyer will be able to help you with this process, so everything is protected.
Divorce does not have to be intimidating with the help of a quality divorce lawyer. Contact one today if you have any other questions.
