Six Steps To Prepare For Divorce

Whether you have had a conversation with your spouse about it yet or not, you know divorce is imminent. Even if you have not yet officially started the process by filing your paperwork with the court, there are many things you can do now to prepare for the process. Below, our Orlando family lawyer outlines what these are.

Take Time to Grieve

When you got married, you likely believed the relationship would last forever. You will feel many emotions when the marriage ends including sadness, frustration, and anger. Although you will have to keep your emotions in check while going through negotiations and divorce hearings, it is important that you take time on your own to grieve. Going through a divorce is one of the hardest things you will ever experience and it is important to deal with your emotions throughout the process.

Collect Financial Paperwork

During the divorce process, you may have to divide the family home, your vehicles, and other assets and property. It is important to collect as much paperwork as possible regarding your marital property. Gather tax returns, financial statements, bank account statements, real estate transactions, and anything else that may be subject to division. If you have already started working with an attorney, they can advise on the important documents you will need.

Create a Budget

Regardless of what you expect to receive in your divorce settlement, it is important to start preparing for your future as an independent person. The last thing you will want is to move forward in your new life without the financial means to do so. Create a budget now that will reflect your situation during the divorce, as well as afterward, so you are not left struggling.

Close Joint Accounts

Part of moving forward as a single person means having your own accounts. If you currently have joint bank or credit accounts with your spouse, close them and open an account that is solely in your name. Not only will this help you start your new life, but it will also give you a chance to start building credit in your name only, which can help you financially in the future.

Consider Your Living Arrangements

The divorce process is sometimes a long and stressful one. After a long day in negotiations, you will likely want to just come home and relax. Living with the person you are divorcing can make this difficult. Consider if you want to stay in the family home, or if you want to find a place of your own. Before you actually move out of the family home, speak to a lawyer about how to proceed. In some cases, such as if you have children together, moving out of the home can actually hurt your divorce case.

Contact a Divorce Lawyer in Orlando

There is a lot you can do to prepare for a divorce. However, there are some aspects of the process you should leave to an Orlando divorce lawyer. At Anderson & Ferrin, P.A., our seasoned attorneys can prepare you for the process and help you obtain the fair settlement you deserve. Call us now at 407-412-7041 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.075.html