Hands of wife, husband signing decree of divorce

Are There Steps To Divorce?

Did you know divorces actually increase in the months around Valentine’s Day? If you find yourself going through a separation, you may be wondering: what can I do to be prepared? Strategizing for your divorce may feel strange, as it is a process that involves many emotions and complex feelings. However, it is important to do what you can to feel ready, as it can reduce the amount of stress you may experience during the process.

Don’t worry. Simon, O'Brien, & Knapp is here to provide you with the most important steps to take in preparing for separation from your spouse.

1. Find The Support Needed

There are several different types of support that you will need during a divorce. First, you will need emotional assistance and support. Let the people that are close to you know about the difficult time you are navigating. Confronting your divorce without emotional support is an exhausting experience. Furthermore, you will also need physical support. Find healthy outlets, such as taking walks, that fulfill your physical needs.

Another important type of support will be your attorney. By having an experienced attorney to help you with your divorce, you will have an advocate in your corner. They will be able to walk you through the process, making sure that you meet any established rules or requirements.

2. Become Financially Independent

During your marriage, it is likely that you decided to open a joint bank account with your spouse. While there are benefits to this during a marriage, if you are divorcing it will be time to close all joint accounts. After doing this, you can take the necessary steps to open your own accounts. It will be important to attend to this as soon as possible, as you will have expenses from the divorce itself to attend to.

A great suggestion is to create a monthly budget to help you better plan your spending. After getting used to a dual income, you will need to readjust and change your life accordingly. You could also consider finding a different job in order to compensate for any losses that you experience financially.

3. Organize Your Documents

As you reorganize your finances, make sure to keep track of important documents. This may include your most recent tax returns or any proof of income that you have. Keep these in a place where you can easily access them when necessary. You will need more than just financial documentation, however.

For example, you may also need to provide any insurance policies and relevant information. If you and your spouse created estate plans together, having these with you will also be useful. Other documentation may include anything to do with shared assets between you and your spouse, such as cars, property, or businesses.

4. Explore Housing Options

Sometimes it is possible for a couple to live together until the divorce is finalized. However, this is not always the case. Sometimes one party may need to find their own place to live in order to handle the separation process. There are many factors to consider when thinking about housing options after your divorce.

If you stay in the marital home, can you afford to do so without your spouse? If you move into a rental home, do you have adequate income for utilities and rent? Do you have a friend or family member that can allow you to stay at their home for a short-term solution while you look for other options? These are all important questions to explore while considering your housing options.

5. Finding The Best Legal Representation

Having the best legal representation for your unique case and needs is the most important. The team at Simon, O'Brien, & Knapp is well versed in family law, including divorce, property division, and custody. Our team can give you well-rounded advice as you move through your divorce.

Contact us today for help with your divorce case by calling us at (973) 604-2224.