Getting a divorce is a harsh reality for many couples that simply were not right for each other. There are some divorces that are far more contentious than others with custody battles and incredible amounts of fighting. Other divorces are agreed upon by both parties as the relationship has been on the rocks for quite some time. Getting yourself ready for a divorce is one of the most important things that you can do both personally and from a legal standpoint. Be as proactive as you can regardless of how upset you are with your current situation. The following are tips that will help you prepare yourself for a divorce.
Hire a Lawyer and Document Everything
Hire a lawyer once you have made the decision to move forward with a divorce. The right family law attorney can help reduce all of the stress being caused by the divorce. The lawyer will be able to give you clarity on the processes of a divorce as well as let you know what you are entitled to when you finalize the divorce. Documentation of poor financial decisions, abuse of any kind, or infidelity will help you in the legal proceedings of the divorce. They can have a huge impact on the custody of children as well.
Set Up a Separate Bank Account
Setting up a separate bank account to put aside money is essential when prepping for a divorce. A spiteful soon to be ex might drain the bank account so you have no money to live appropriately. Put away money from each of your paychecks as this will be difficult to notice if you handle most of the finances. Asking about the process for separating joint account should not be done. A person from the bank could call and talk to your spouse which can cause extreme reactions.
Get Your Own PO Box
You are going to need to communicate with your lawyer via mail as well as through other means. You do not want a letter from your divorce lawyer coming to the home. Even if you have only consulted with a lawyer you need to have a PO box as you do not want a letter from the firm trying to land you as a client to be opened by anyone other than you. Your spouse is not the only person to worry about as older children tend to get nosey when they sense their parents are having problems.
Start Looking At Options For New Living Accommodations
You should start looking for a new place to live if you do not think you will get the home in the divorce or you simply just want to sell it. Downsizing is what most people do after a divorce but this can come with its perks. You can upgrade certain features of your lifestyle with a condo that has a gym, pool, and other things. Not only will you love something like this but your children will love it as well if you have them.
As you can see it is important to prepare for a divorce. You are not trying to defeat your ex in the divorce but rather trying to make sure you get what you deserve from the divorce proceedings.