Issues To Consider Before Filing For Divorce

If you are thinking about ending your marriage, it is important to not allow intense emotions to influence important decisions before you have fully considered their ramifications.

Too often, individuals discover that decisions made in the heat of the moment can dramatically influence the outcome of their divorce settlement and child custody disputes. As a result, it is critical that you consider a few issues carefully before announcing that you intend to part ways with your spouse.

First, understand that once you make your intentions to divorce known to your spouse, he or she will likely react in strong ways. Your spouse may immediately hire an attorney, seek a temporary custody order, freeze accounts, hide assets and otherwise act counter to your best interests. It is therefore advisable that you consult an attorney and ensure that your affairs are properly in order before you tell your spouse that you are filing for divorce.

Second, it is critical that you have a clear understanding of your financial situation before filing for divorce. By identifying your assets, debts, income and expenses you will create an objective picture of what your finances will look like during and after your split. Failure to look at your finances before you file can lead to a nasty shock once the paperwork is formally drawn up.

Finally, it is important that you are sure of your decision and have some support in place before you make your intentions to divorce known. Once those words are spoken, you will need a support system by your side and you will need to be secure in the knowledge that you are making the best possible decision for your life before the divorce process begins in earnest.

Source: Huffington Post, “The 5 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Considering a Divorce,” Debbie Martinez, Oct. 15, 2013