How to Prepare Yourself for Getting Divorced
Statistics tell us that approximately half of all first marriages will end in a divorce, with even higher percentages for second or third marriages. The odds are likely, therefore, that any married person will need to go through a divorce at one time or another in their lives. If you realize that your marriage is heading for a divorce, or if you plan to be the one who initiates divorce proceedings, remember that there are several proactive steps you can take in order to prepare yourself – financially and emotionally – for your coming divorce.
Look for the Signs of Trouble
The first thing to understand when preparing for divorce is the importance of time. All the steps that you can take to get ready are only effective if done weeks, or even months in advance. For this reason, it is important to stay aware of the status of your relationship. People who feel “blindsided” when their partner files for divorce aren’t telling themselves the whole truth. The signs of relationship troubles are always present – it is up to you to observe and accept them for what they are.
Organize Information
Once you realize that a divorce is inevitable, it is time to start organizing your personal and marital information. Obtain copies of all important documents relating to your financial and social ties to your spouse. Keep clear records of all financial assets and debts you and your spouse have accumulated over the years – including bank accounts, credit cards, stocks, and loans. Find copies of your tax returns for the past few years. Compile any estate-planning documents – such as wills and prenuptial agreements. Also, write down important contact information so that you can access it easily later.
Prepare Your Finances
Always remember that divorce has the potential to seriously damage your financial situation. To avoid this, start by taking a look at your credit report. If there are problems, try to fix them before the divorce before an expensive legal battle has drained your financial resources. Keeping a clean credit report will allow you to fend for yourself more effectively after the divorce is over. Now is also a good time to begin separating the assets that you and your spouse hold. If you have joint bank accounts, loans, and credit cards, consider taking the time to create your own separate accounts for use both during and after the divorce.
Prepare Yourself
Start changing your mindset from that of a married person to that of an individual. This does not mean making a rash decision to move out, or taking actions which may make the situation worse by angering or irritating your spouse. What it does mean is that you begin to prepare yourself for a new outlook on life. This may be something as basic as dusting off an old resume and making contact with potential employers or looking at places where you can live when the divorce is complete. If you feel emotionally troubled, seeking counseling, advice, or support is also a good idea.
Find a Professional San Marcos Divorce Lawyer
If you or a loved one is involved in family law litigation or a divorce case with child support, custody, or visitation issues, and need legal representation, don’t hesitate to contact the Fischer & Van Thiel Family Law Firm of San Marcos at (760) 757-6854 today to get solid legal advice and a professional divorce lawyer consultation.