Without a doubt, divorce can be one of the most difficult hardships to go through. Emotions of heartbreak, fear of failure and the impact that it will have on your children may all be immediate thoughts that flood your mind. While the subject of divorce can be an emotional one, there are still some very important affairs that you MUST have in order:
Seek Help From a Non-Lawyer
It’s a good idea to interview more than one Paralegal or Non-Lawyer before making the choice to file for divorce. A Non-Lawyer that fits your personality and has an understanding of what specifics need to be looked at within your case is essential during this stage of the process. Avoid Non-Lawyers who over-promise, if you get the feeling that they’re going to under-deliver. Non-Lawyers and Paralegals offer a price point that is usually determined by level of experience and reputation. If you foresee your divorce going in a nasty direction, ensure that you are recruiting the help of a skilled Non-Lawyer that is experienced in divorce’s with many different variables to consider.
Ensure That Your Finances Are In Order
Divorce center heavily on finances. Mortgages, living expenses, car payments, bank account records, ect will all likely be needed and necessary information during the divorce process. Procure as much of this information as possible prior to filing for divorce. If you and your spouse possess or have access to documentation of financial records in your home, duplicate all of this information before meeting with your Non-Lawyer. The reason for this, while unfortunate, is that most spouses do not react well with being served divorce papers. In the event that they make it hard for you to obtain documents, you need to be prepared!
Consider What Your Hopes Are For Custody
If you have children, the subject of custody has probably been at the epicenter of your mind during your decision to move forward with divorce. For many, sharing a child with a spouse that you have grown apart from can be a defining component in the decision to stay in an unhealthy marriage. During these times, keep in mind that this is a decision that you’re making to ultimately improve your happiness and mental state; thus creating a happier, less hostile environment for your child.
With the exception of strange or different circumstances, you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse will most likely end up splitting custody of your child(ren). Be proactive in establishing a plan, based on your availability, income and living situation and be prepared. If you have a firm grasp on your hopes for custody after divorce, you will be miles ahead of others who have filed for divorce.
What Will Your Living Situation Look Like?
For most, staying in the same house as hour spouse can sound like a less-than-ideal option. It’s important to take your time to consider your goals for where you will live during the split.
- Do you plan to move somewhere else?
- Would you like your spouse to leave instead?
- Is it your hope that you both will mutually agree to leave the home?
Be cautious, as your actions in the time leading up to your divorce can directly impact your chances of winning the residence during the divorce. For example, moving in with a relative or friend in the weeks leading up to your divorce won’t help your chances of staying in the residence during the divorce. Speak with your Non-Lawyer about how to best position yourself for your goal for the living situation.
Make Arrangements For Joint Bank Accounts & Credit Cards
Depending on what your financial situation has looked like within your marriage up to this point, you may want to consider arranging for any shared bank accounts or credit cards to be closed when filing for divorce. The last thing that you need is an angry spouse draining bank accounts and running up credit card bills, as you attempt to go through what can become a very costly endeavor. Take your time and ensure that you are making the correct decision when choosing whether you should split the accounts in half, close them entirely, or leave them as they are before filing for the divorce.
Act Accordingly
In some cases, such as those involving children, your behavior could be looked at negatively by a judge. Avoid partaking in useless rigmarole or arguments with your spouse that would normally take you out of your character. Prepare to avoid negative interactions with your spouse that could be used against you at a later date. Consult with your Non-Lawyer about proper conduct during the divorce process.
Stay Connected With Friends & Family
Divorce takes it’s toll on everyone involved. Both participants in the marriage, the children, mutual friends, parents and family members all seem to feel the ripple when someone so close to them is going through something so traumatic. An often overlooked aspect of divorce is the mental and emotional toll it takes on an individual. Chances are good that you have already been down a very long a painful road to get to this point, so it’s important to stay connected with friends, family and others that can be supportive or have experience in this area.
In Conclusion
If you’re feeling unhappy in your marriage, and have exhausted all options for trying to make things work, divorce is unfortunately the only option. While it’s reputation seems to be followed by a black cloud, it’s important to remember that this is a decision that you are making to ultimately improve your quality of life and outlook for your future. Pursuing a divorce in Central Florida can be a back-breaking process, that can test the composure of any well-rounded individual, but an experienced Non-Lawyer can help guide you through the process.