Preparing for Divorce
Going through a divorce tends to be extremely difficult and emotionally draining—but you're not alone. In 2021 alone, there were around 689,308 divorces in the United States, so don't feel like you're by yourself. Nevertheless, it's not a fun process. Whether you are the one filing or you have been served with divorce papers, the process can be overwhelming.
Preparing for divorce before going through the process can help ease some of the stress and anxiety that comes with ending a marriage. At Oleen Law Firm, we have decades of experience in helping clients navigate the divorce process in and around Manhattan, Kansas.
In this blog post, we will be sharing tips and advice on how to prepare for divorce. Don't hesitate to reach out if you're feeling lost during the process.
Considerations Before Filing for Divorce
Divorce is a complicated process with a lot of legal considerations. Before rushing into a divorce, it's important to consider a few key items to make sure you're fully prepared for the journey ahead.
For instance, you may want to think about counseling. Speak with a therapist or counselor to help you process your emotions and develop coping mechanisms. This can be especially important if you have children, as it's essential to provide them with a stable environment during this difficult time.
Also, recognize that there are several types of divorce, including contested, collaborative, and mediation. Each type of divorce has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, and it's important to carefully consider which one is right for you and your specific situation.
A contested divorce can be a lengthy and costly process, but it may be necessary if you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement on key issues such as child custody and division of assets.
A collaborative divorce, on the other hand, involves working together with your spouse and their attorney to come up with a mutually-beneficial arrangement. Mediation is another option, involving a neutral third-party mediator who can help you and your spouse work through any issues.
Finally, if you're living with your spouse, it may not be practical to remain in the same house during the divorce process, especially if your relationship is acrimonious. You may need to consider finding alternative housing for yourself and your children, or you may choose to stay with family or friends until the divorce is finalized.
Steps to Take to Prepare for the Divorce Process
Because divorce is so difficult and overwhelming, it's important to prepare yourself as much as possible before going through with the process. Here are some steps to take when preparing for divorce.
Hire an Experienced Family Law Attorney
The first step in preparing for your divorce is finding an experienced family law attorney. A good attorney will ensure you're informed of your legal rights, guide you through the process, and negotiate on your behalf. They'll also work to make sure your interests are represented and that you're given the best possible outcome in your divorce.
Secure Assets and Accounts
Secure your assets and accounts by making copies of important documents, canceling joint accounts, and changing your personal passwords. Doing so will help protect your finances during the divorce process.
It's important to gather and document any information you can about any assets or accounts you and your spouse share. If possible, keep a record of any transactions or conversations regarding assets and accounts so you can prove what is yours.
Gather Personal Information
Gather personal information about yourself and your spouse, such as proof of residency, employment information, and any financial information available. Having this information readily available can help expedite the divorce process and make proving your case a bit easier.
Assess Financial Situation
Before the divorce process begins, assess your financial situation, including your income, expenses, and existing debts. Determine what you have and what you'll need to live independently. If you have children, include their financial needs in your assessment, including any child support or spousal maintenance that may need to be paid.
Identify Personal/Marital Property
Dividing property can be one of the most challenging aspects of a divorce. Identify all personal or marital property that needs to be divided, including real estate, cars, household items, jewelry, and any other belongings. Gather any paperwork pertaining to these items to make sure there's no confusion during the legal process.
Collect Legal Documents
Finally, collect any legal documents you might need, such as tax returns, insurance policies, and documents related to any businesses you or your spouse own. These documents will help determine how to divide property and spousal maintenance.
A Divorce Attorney Who Fights for You
Divorce is a stressful process, but it doesn't have to be. Having an experienced divorce attorney by your side can make a huge difference. At Oleen Law Firm, our attorneys understand the complexities of divorce cases and are dedicated to helping you through the process.
Whether you’re in Manhattan, Kansas, or neighboring areas like Junction City, our team is ready to help fight for your interests and provide the legal and emotional support you need. Contact us today.