Going Through A Divorce? Seven Things To Remember
Divorce rates have skyrocketed since the start of the pandemic, up 34% from years prior. Divorce is never easy, but getting the right advice for your specific situation can make the process a little less stressful. Members of our Legal Subscription Plans for Individuals & Families can get advice about divorce and separation and all other areas of family law included with their monthly subscription fee. Learn more about this fantastic benefit and read on for a few divorce tips.
Put The Children First
If you have minor children, all divorce decisions should be made with the best interests of the children first and foremost. Prioritize the needs of the children and be ready to compromise for their benefit wherever possible.
Know What You're Willing To Give Up & What You Want
Deciding what you need and want is one of the most important things to do when preparing to go through the process of divorce. Make a list of what you need to have, what you want to have, and what you'd be willing to give up and where you have room to compromise so that you will have a list when it is time for negotiations.
Uncontested Divorce Requires Working Together
Mediation can make the entire process of divorce as smooth as possible. In mediation, you and your spouse will work together to agree to terms of the split, including child support and custody, visitation, division of property, alimony, and more. Instead of communicating through representatives (like attorneys), you can talk directly to each other in a controlled environment to lessen stress and strife, lower the risk of miscommunication.
Collaborative Divorce As An Option
A collaborative divorce provides more protection than mediation but is still a cooperative effort between the divorcing parties. A collaborative divorce allows for attorneys to be present but the attorneys promise to work to amicable resolve all areas of disagreement.
Counseling
You don't have to carry the burden of a stressful divorce alone, and therapists can provide substantial benefits through a trying time. When your mental health is in the right place, you can make better, less emotional, decisions for yourself and for any children you might have.
Financial Records
One of the major areas of scrutiny in a divorce is finances, so it will be important to have your financial records and assets in order before you begin. Gather documents, such as tax returns, credit scores, debts, assets, recent bank statements, investments, and other financial records.
Get Legal Counsel
Getting a divorce should never be a DIY proposition, particularly if you have assets and/or children. Mistakes can be very costly and the law is complex. This is an area where you won't want to take a chance that everything will just work out. Hire an attorney who is well-versed in family law in your state, who knows the ins and outs of the legal system where you live, and who can advise you of your rights and responsibilities under the law every step of the way.
Members of our Legal Subscription Protection Plans can get comprehensive legal support through a divorce at no additional charge. Get the legal guidance you need without breaking the bank by signing up for our Legal Protection Plans today. Learn more about all the benefits for Individuals & Families or Sign Up Now!