Going through a divorce is never an easy process, and it can be emotionally draining. However, there are certain steps you should take after deciding to get a divorce in order to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you are considering ending your marriage, here is a list of helpful tips for the days, weeks, and months ahead.
Find an Experienced Divorce Lawyer
It’s important that you find an experienced divorce lawyer who specializes in family law to help you navigate the legal aspects of your divorce. Your lawyer can advise you on how to protect your rights, explain any potential complications (such as child custody), and answer any questions about the proceedings.
Prepare for Finances
A key part of getting divorced is preparing for financial matters such as asset division and spousal support payments. Make sure that you have all of your financial documents ready before filing for divorce so that they can be easily accessed throughout the process. This includes bank statements, investments accounts, retirement accounts, credit card statements, mortgages, tax returns, etc.
Create Copies of Important Documents
Before filing for divorce, make sure that all important documents such as birth certificates or passports are copied or scanned and stored securely somewhere outside of the house so they are not lost during the proceedings. Additionally, create copies of any joint credit cards or other forms of debt so both parties have access if necessary.
Consider Counseling or Therapy
Divorce can be a difficult and emotionally draining process, so it’s important that you take steps to care for your mental health. Consider talking to a therapist or counselor who can help you work through any lingering emotions and provide tips on how to cope with the divorce process.
Going through a divorce can be overwhelming but by taking certain steps prior to filing for divorce such as finding an experienced lawyer and organizing financial documents can make it easier on yourself in the long run. Additionally, creating copies of important documents such as birth certificates or passports will help when dealing with custody issues or travel plans down the road if needed. Overall, taking these precautions before filing for divorce will give you peace of mind knowing that everything has been taken care of properly from day one.
About the author:
Emma is a freelance writer based out of Boston, MA. She writes most often on health and education. When not writing, she enjoys reading and watching film noir. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2