6 Things to Consider Before Getting a Divorce
Divorce is a life-altering decision and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Based on statistics, 40% of all marriages in the United States end in divorce, which is alarmingly high. The divorce process can be extremely stressful for both spouses as well as the kids. Therefore it is advised to get help from an experienced divorce attorney before you finalize the divorce. This way the whole process will go smooth and your rights will also be protected. Moreover, the attorney will make sure that you do not rush through the process and take any hasty decisions. Here are six things to consider before getting a divorce:
Never Rush through the Process – Couples who have decided that a divorce is necessary, often have the urge to just get over with it quickly. However, if it was a long marriage, the divorce process can take a long time. Since divorce is a life-altering decision, one shouldn’t rush through the process. Get help from a divorce attorney who can make sound and proper decisions which will help you in your future. Any hasty decisions taken at the spur of the moment will impact you for the rest of your life, and you will only regret later on. Seek help, ask advice, and avoid making irrational decisions.
Do what’s best for your children – If you have children, it is even more important to tread carefully through the divorce process. Kids are greatly impacted when their parents decide to go ahead with a divorce. Their self-esteem, social interaction, emotional state and performance in life is greatly affected. It is also not advised to keep them in the dark. Prepare them for the divorce so they are prepared to move ahead with their life.
Hire Separate Attorneys – Each spouse should hire a separate attorney to reduce friction. Hiring the same attorney as your spouse is not at all advised as the attorney will not be able to give you unbiased legal counsel.
Go for Mediation – Both sides can decide and go for mediation before litigation. Mediation gives both sides a chance to meet with a third party to negotiate the terms of the divorce. In most divorce cases, civil mediation should be the first priority. It helps provide a cost-effective outcome and prevent a battle in the courtroom.
Be prepared financially – Set money aside as soon as possible when you decide that you will be going ahead with a divorce. You will need all the money to pay lawyer fee, court fees, and more. In some cases, you will have to pay child support or alimony. Plan ahead and be prepared for the divorce. Also set aside some funds for any emergencies or unexpected expenses that may arise during the divorce process.
Update your Will – Your life changes significantly during and after the divorce. Once you have decided you will go ahead with the divorce, be sure to update your will. This will ensure that the right people will benefit after you die. Even though the divorce settlement may take several months or even years to finalize, if you do not update the will, your spouse will benefit if you were to pass away or even become ill during or after the divorce process.
