I Just Admitted to Myself It’s Over: What Do I Do Now?
Admitting that a marriage isn’t working out and proceeding with divorce is tough. But once you have come to terms with ending a marriage, it’s time to start making some decisions. Mistakes during divorce proceedings can cost you emotionally and financially, so it’s important to protect yourself. If you’re unsure what steps to take after deciding to get a divorce, this blog is for you.
The legal team at Alison Grant Attorney at Law is dedicated to ensuring the individuals of Lewisville, Texas get the guidance they need to make the best decisions for themselves and their families. Our team has created this guide to help you navigate through the beginning stages of divorce proceedings. Here’s what you need to know:
Step 1: Get Your Documents in Order
Divorce proceedings can be extremely stressful if you don’t get organized. Your attorney needs to have access to documents that show your personal and financial standings before and during the marriage. Get the following documents copied to ensure your divorce attorney can set you up for success without costing you more time and money:
- Tax returns
- Bank statements
- Check registers
- Investment statements
- Retirement account statements
- Employee benefits handbook or information
- Life insurance policies
- Mortgage documents
- Financial statements
- Credit card statements
- Family trusts
- Social security statements
- Stock grants
- Automobile titles
- Information about your spouse’s business if they are self-employed
These documents will help prove which assets belong to which party in the marriage should things get contentious. Together, they will paint a clear picture of the assets that legally belong to you, something that can make a huge difference in your financial future.
Step 2: Separate Your Assets From Theirs, If Possible
Get credit cards and a bank account in your name. Do not move any money until after talking with an attorney.
If you think there’s any chance your spouse will try to hide money or keep you from getting what’s rightly yours, talk to an attorney immediately about whether you should transfer money to your account before telling them you want a divorce. Protecting yourself during this vulnerable time is highly important and needs to be done carefully to reduce the risk of financial roadblocks.
Step 3: Focus On Your Children
If you have children, the divorce will impact their lives. Focus on trying to lessen that impact. Do not involve your children in the legal battle or ask them to take sides, as this can be emotionally damaging. Try to keep their day-to-day schedule as normal as possible as you work out parenting with their other parent.
Also have a plan for your children for when the divorce proceedings are taking place. Consider where they are going to stay and what you are willing to accept in terms of parenting and visitation rights. Money and children are often the two biggest contention points in divorces. Make sure you are prepared for your spouse to disagree with your plan when you file your papers.
Step 4: Consider What You Want Most From the Divorce
Think about the things you want and need from the divorce. This way, you’ll know what you want when you file, giving you the opportunity to be fair with your spouse and with yourself.
Step 5: Obtain the Best Legal Advice Possible
When it comes to divorce, you don’t want to cut corners or trust everything your spouse tells you. It is important to research the potential attorneys you want to speak with to see if they have the skills and experience necessary to help you with your divorce. Alison Grant, Attorney at Law is a strong legal advocate for the individuals of Lewisville, Texas and the surrounding areas. Her mission is to make her clients feel as comfortable about the proceedings as possible and keep them informed every step of the way. Contact our team today for more information on our services or to schedule a consultation.
