Divorce isn’t easy. It isn’t cheap either. When it comes time that your relationship just isn’t worth saving anymore and divorce feels like the only answer, you want to make sure that you’ve exhausted every other angle first, then you want to do a few other things as well.
First, seek counseling for your marriage. If it is at all possible to work things out there may be an answer other than divorce. Not every relationship works out though, and in the end, if divorce is the right answer, here are some things to keep in mind.
Check Out Attorneys Before Filing
Part of your preparation for divorce should start with looking into a few different attorneys prior to picking the one you will work with. Not only do you want to look into how much they charge, what their track record is, and find out what they can tell you about the difficulties of divorce. While, if your relationship is just not working out, divorce may be the only answer, you still need to know exactly what you are getting into.
Your attorney will be one of your best assets when it comes to getting prepared for your divorce proceedings. There are many things that married couples share that can be affected by a divorce, including retirement plans and property you own.
Basically, it makes sense to look at it as though you are going into battle. I long and hard one that will, in a sense, have no winners.
Paperwork Preparations
According to the Law Offices of Jeffrey Alan Aenlle, PA, divorce can be simplified if both parties are in agreement. This can be done with a simplified petition for divorce. This only works for those that have no need to fight over custody or assets though. If you can’t agree on things you won’t be able to do things the easy way.
Paperwork is more than just about the papers you need to fill out to file for divorce, it’s also about making sure that all of your accounts are joint accounts. You want your name on everything so that your spouse cannot deplete any accounts without your signature there too. It also includes making copies of all paperwork, including tax returns, bills and the like. Anything that the two of you share needs to have a copy for both of you to have on hand.
Don’t Do Anything Devious
One of the most important things to remember when it comes to divorce, especially one that just isn’t happening in a friendly way, is to not do anything to hurt the other person. Don’t tell lies or make devious plans because it will always backfire on you.
These few steps will start on on the right track to a healthier divorce. Make sure that you talk to someone who’s been through it so you can get an idea of all the things you’ll need to get through and the things you’ll need to do once your divorce is complete.
