Divorce statistics released recently show that around 50% of all marriages in the U.S. will either end in separation or divorce. Assuming you have found yourself in a tight situation where you have no choice but to file for divorce, do not be hasty.
Instead, pay attention to these 6 tips on what to do before filing for divorce.
- Start Preparing to Live Your Life Independently
Maybe you had a joint bank account and other things you used to share when you were together. But now everything has changed. That being said, some of the things you should prepare for before applying for divorce are:
- Setting up a P.O. box
- Creating a checklist of all of your belongings
- Having your own health insurance
- Making sure your personal information is secure
- Opening your own bank account plus having your own credit card
- Seek Legal Advice
Divorce can be quite cumbersome. That is why you need to hire a divorce attorney. Ideally, you should take your time and settle on an experienced divorce lawyer who will help increase your chances of being the victor.
A divorce attorney will help you understand how to file for divorce as well as what to do before, during, and after divorce. You should also note that seeking legal help normally shortens the divorce process.
- Ensure You Avoid Actions that can have a Negative Impact on Divorce
A lawyer will tell you that there are some words to stay away from once you have broken the divorce news to your spouse. That is because some of these words can cost you in a court of law. That is because living on your own during divorce might make you lose the battle, especially concerning child custody and property division.
But it is not just words that can make you lose a legal battle. What you do during the process can have an impact too. For example, most states advise against dating during a divorce.
That is because your former spouse might claim that you started the relationship before filing for divorce.
- Make Sure You have an Ideal Custody Plan
An astonishing report says that up to 50% of all kids in the U.S. will witness the marriage of their parents come to an end. Add that to the fact that kids are often heavily affected by divorce and you will quickly realize why you need to have an in-depth custody plan in place.
You should come up with a convenient schedule for parenting time. Ideally, you should have the court approve your custody plan during a divorce.
- Should You Stay or Move Out?
Most people, when about to file for divorce, are usually pumped up to move out. However, divorce attorneys are against this. That is because living on your own during divorce might make you lose the battle, especially concerning child custody and property division.
But there are some instances where you might be forced to move out. For example, when your partner becomes extremely violent, harms you, or puts your life in danger. Before moving out, however, make sure you seek advice from your lawyer.
- Avoid Social Media
A simple click of the button and you are on your Facebook or Twitter account trying to explain to the world how you are hurting. After all, a problem shared is a problem halved. Unfortunately, that does not apply here.
Divorce lawyers say that sharing your issues on social media platforms is likely to do you more harm than good. And the situation becomes worryingly worse if you have children with your soon-to-be-ex.
Conclusion
Filing for divorce is always a hectic process. However, when you understand and know what to have in mind before applying for it, then you can somewhat make the entire process less stressful.
