How do I Prepare for a Divorce?

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When you get divorced, you make a huge life decision that may have significant impacts on both you and your family. This is why it is important you know what you are getting into before making your decision. While many feel dishonest or disingenuous when preparing for a divorce, this should not be the case. As with any major life decision, you often get the best results if you plan it well. If you get a divorce in a split-second decision, there is a good chance you are unprepared not only emotionally, but financially as well. This is why you should take a look over some of the essential steps in navigating your divorce before doing so.

What is the first step in getting a divorce?

Divorce is a lot of work, and you will have to bear down to ensure its proper execution. However, you also have to keep yourself in mind. You are doing this because in one way or another, you feel your life would be better if you did. Therefore, you should keep that in mind and do what you need to do for yourself emotionally. Once you feel you are in a good position to take action, then you may start getting organized and collecting all the documentation you will need.

What documentation do you need to get a divorce?

You will have to gather your tax returns, W-2 forms, bank statements, credit card statements, pay stubs, and more. Your spouse will have to do the same. When the time comes to divvy your assets, you will have to show these to the courts in order for them to get a clear picture of how your marriage functions financially. While it is important for the courts to understand your financial situation, it may be even more important for you to do so. Before you get a divorce, you should crunch numbers and carefully calculate how much money you bring in each week. From there, you will have to decide how much of your paycheck will go to rent, house expenses, food etc. It is extremely important you carefully work these numbers out, as you want to be entirely sure you can do it on your own.

What are the different means of getting a divorce?

You can get a divorce via litigation, arbitration and mediation. Each of these are a valid means of divorce, and they are all worth exploring. Different means work for different people and situations, so consider all three before you make a decision.

How do you limit the emotional damage of a divorce?

Divorce can be hard on you, your spouse, your children and others as well. However, if you go about it correctly, its damage may be limited. As stated earlier, you have to look out for yourself emotionally, because you’ll need to be strong throughout this process. That means if you need therapy or anything of the sort, do not hesitate to seek help. The same goes for your children. You must take time out and talk to them. They will be going through a lot, just as you will be. This is why it is so important you are both on the same page–or at least try to be. If you notice a change in your children, you should consider approaching them about talking to somebody as well. It is a complicated process, and they may want to talk about it with someone without the worry of hurting either parent’s feelings. It is important you listen to how they respond to this question. 

Contact our New Jersey firm

Divorce is hard, and we understand that. We are here to help you through your divorce process, every step of the way. We promise to vigorously fight for your rights in court. If you are seeking a divorce, please contact one of our experienced and compassionate attorneys today.