Preparing for Divorce
Since divorce is inevitably a major change in anyone's life,
it is wise to begin planning for a divorce before actually beginning the
divorce process. A suitable divorce plan will involve mentally preparing for
divorce and gathering information.
It is wise to attempt both marriage counseling and individual
counseling before pursuing a divorce. In the event the parties are not able to
mend their relationship through marriage counseling, an individual counselor
can help a spouse to approach divorce in a healthy way. If you are considering
divorce, you should think about how separation from your spouse will impact your
children, finances, property, etc.
Planning an Exit Strategy
As you familiarize yourself with the divorce process, you can
begin by creating a written plan or exit strategy to help you get through the
process with the least possible amount of loss or damage.
Gathering Information
If you are beginning to prepare for a divorce, it is best practice
to collect and maintain copies or records of your important information. This
should include deeds, monthly bills, credit cards/loans, bank or financial
accounts,
costs associated with child(ren), etc. Once you have gathered and reviewed all your important
information, you can develop a better understanding of how that information
fits into the big picture of your divorce.
You can save time and money by gathering these items before hiring
an attorney, because it will assist any divorce attorney you consult with in evaluating your case. In addition, once your divorce has been filed, you will
likely need to produce these documents to the other party, through the
Discovery process.
Telling Your Family
Once you have mentally prepared yourself, gathered
information, and consulted with a family law attorney, you should consider how
you will tell your spouse. Then, in order to avoid tension with your spouse, it is
best to discuss together when and how you will tell the child(ren) about the
divorce.
Written by: Rebekah Ann James