Preparing for Divorce
It’s a new year, and many people are taking the opportunity to reflect on their goals and lifestyle. For some, these reflections lead to a decision to go through with a divorce now that the holidays are over.
Learning how to prepare for a divorce here in Bucks County can help you navigate this process more smoothly and move forward with confidence. This divorce preparation guide is an excellent starting point.
Meet With an Attorney as Soon as Possible
Meeting with an attorney is an excellent way to start preparing for a divorce. They can walk you through your next steps and provide some peace of mind during this stressful time in your life.
A divorce attorney may provide legal assistance with:
- Filing for divorce with the local court
- Compiling all necessary documentation
- Protecting your right to a fair portion of your shared assets and property
- Advocating for your interests in child custody and support negotiations
- Communicating with your spouse on your behalf
- Representing you in negotiations and mediation sessions
You might have initial questions about moving forward. Should you talk to your spouse? Tell the kids what’s going on? Start separating your assets or open a new bank account? Having legal counsel at this stage can help you feel a lot more comfortable.
Start Gathering Your Financial Documents and Passwords
Another good way to start preparing for divorce is to gather the documents you’ll need for creating the marital settlement agreement and dividing your lives. These documents may include:
- Bank statements
- Pay stubs
- Tax documents
- Business financial statements
- Real estate deeds
- Bank account log-in information
- Account balances
- A list of your major assets and debts
Aside from financial documents, gather your marriage license, any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, and copies of your insurance policies, your will, and any trust documents. Keeping all of these documents in a central location now can save you time later on.
Focus on What You Want Your Life To Look Like
One of the major tips for filing for divorce is to focus on your divorce goals before you even file. This can help you gain clarity about your priorities so that you can center negotiations or mediation sessions on what is important to you and avoid arguing about less significant details.
For example, do you really want the house, or would you be okay finding another place to live? Could you afford the house on your own anyway? Will you need to find a job after the divorce? If you have kids, what are your goals for dividing custody and visitation?
Thinking about these topics now can save you time down the line and help you avoid agreeing to something that doesn’t truly reflect your goals.
Seek Legal Guidance From Karen Ann Ulmer, P.C.
If you are preparing for divorce in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, Karen Ann Ulmer, P.C., is here for you. We can help you understand the steps to start a divorce and protect your legal rights. Contact us today at (866) 349-4907 to request a confidential consultation with our experienced divorce attorneys.
