Getting divorced is not as simple as it sounds. It is an emotional process that can get complicated and take longer than expected to complete. There’s more to the divorce process than merely signing papers and sending them to a court. The entire process starts from the moment you decide that the only step to take concerning your marriage is getting divorced from your spouse. After making that decision, there are several things you should know about the process before actually filing for divorce. Some of these things to know involve making difficult decisions, and it is best to know them before time. Let’s get to it.
1. Get a Good Attorney
The first step in the divorce process is getting a divorce attorney. Don’t just go for any lawyer, but make sure your preferred lawyer is an expert in handling divorce cases. For your divorce to go smoothly, you need a lawyer that understands your reasons for filing and matches your style. It’s advisable to get counsel from different attorneys. However, if you’re affiliated to Chester County, best to get a Chester County divorce lawyer to manage your case.
2. Get Copies of All Your Financial Documents
Documentation is quite vital in divorce cases. Make sure you get copies of your financial records, marriage certificate, and pre-nuptial agreement (if there was any), house and car mortgages or receipts, and all other legal documents that may be relevant. Also, if you have shared accounts with your spouse, you should get records of those too. Compile a list of your debts and assets, including jointly owned properties, credit cards, and even retirement accounts. Consulting with a good Chester County divorce lawyer will help you know all the essential documents you should have.
3. Buy All Your Necessary Needs
In most cases, judges place restrictions on buying, selling, or getting rid of properties while the divorce cases are still in court. So if you have a pending sale or purchase, it’s advisable to complete it before filing. Be careful not to drain out your accounts as doing that can backfire later.
You should also consult with your lawyer on how to handle joint credit cards and accounts. Your attorney will tell you whether you should close the account, split it in half with your spouse or leave it the same.
4. Decide on Where You’ll Stay
Before filing for divorce, ask yourself these questions:
- Will you continue living with your spouse as the divorce proceeds?
- Do you have plans to get a new apartment or stay with someone?
- Would you prefer your spouse to move out?
Make sure you have plans on what your living condition would be during the divorce. If you are confused about what to do, you can talk to a Chester County divorce lawyer on handling your living conditions.
Also, try as much as possible not to date someone else before or while the divorce process is on. As long as you are still legally married, a romantic relationship with someone else is considered adultery.
Lastly, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Getting divorced is an emotional process, and you should surround yourself with people you consider your support system.
