In my experience, there are many things soon-to-be-divorced couples should consider to prepare for a divorce. Aside from the three thoughts, I will share with you, there is likely a more extensive list of things that you need to consider and do, depending on your specific circumstance; it is important to be prepared for a divorce. Here are three common pieces of advice to prepare yourself for a divorce before it happens.
- In my opinion, if possible, the first step is for both parties to agree to speak with a marriage counselor. This is important because the counselor could help to bring awareness to emotions that arise and how to deal with them. A marriage counselor may be able to help you heal from any resentment you may have towards your spouse which is a critical component in moving forward, especially if there are children involved. In my opinion, the sooner you meet with a counselor, the better. Many couples enter into the divorce process expecting immediate results only to learn that it can often be a long drawn out process, particularly if unable to resolve outside of the courtroom. Marriage counselors can also help you cope with the divorce process. A marriage counselor can help you navigate the process and the emotions that occur as a result of your divorce.
- Next, in my opinion, you should meet with the best divorce attorney that you can find. In a divorce, there are a lot of moving parts, and it can be very complicated for some married couples. Now that we are in the midst of a pandemic, it can also make the process longer than usual – which also adds more stress to the divorce process. A role of a divorce lawyer is to help you navigate and protect your interests in your divorce, including dividing assets and debt (also, determining child custody rights, if children are involved). Meet with a divorce attorney to guide you through the process and to help you arrive at a settlement that is suitable for you and your spouse.
- Last, try and get your finances in order for the best you can. In my experience, as a divorce lawyer and family lawyer in Bergen County, New Jersey, and Monmouth County, New Jersey, before my clients achieve a divorce settlement, each party needs to have a full understanding of the marital debt as well as assets regardless of whose name it may be in.
A divorce is not easy, but when you are prepared, it makes the process a bit smoother. If you need a divorce lawyer, here is an article that I wrote regarding some key characteristics of top divorce lawyers to look for.
Disclaimer
This article contains general information and opinions from Sheena Burke Williams and is not intended to be a source of legal advice for any purpose. No reader of this article should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information included in this article without seeking legal advice of counsel. Sheena Burke Williams expressly disclaims all liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on any content in this article.