Things To Do Before Asking for a Divorce
Regardless of the circumstances, divorce includes essential decisions for your family and financial future. Before you take legal action to initiate the dissolution of marriage in Colorado, take steps to prepare yourself legally, emotionally, and financially.
At Philip Goldberg PC, we work with clients throughout the divorce process to represent your interests and educate you on the divorce process. We work to achieve your goals, from child custody to the division of assets.
7 Things to do Before Asking for a Divorce
Find A Family Law Attorney
Don’t tell your spouse you want to file for divorce until you have an attorney. A family law attorney can help you prepare before you file for divorce. You cannot be sure how your spouse will react, and you want to have a plan. Work with a trusted and compassionate divorce attorney who understands family law.
Get Your Paperwork in Order
Divorce includes a review of your financial documents, including retirement accounts, bank statements, debts, and more. Ensure you have a list of all known accounts with their current balances and passwords.
Locate the copies of all deeds and titles for any owned property. You’ll also want identification for you and your children, including birth certificates, social security cards, passports, marriage licenses, insurance cards, and other vital documents.
Plan for Your Children
One of the most complex parts of divorce is the impact on your children. During the initial stages of a divorce, it’s crucial to plan where the children will live. Talk with your lawyer about your wishes for your children.
If you can create an agreement with your spouse and avoid fighting, it may be a smoother transition for the children.
Have Money Available
Secure a credit card in your name only before you file for divorce. Also, have at least three months of savings in place. You will need a way to pay to live. Try not to have to depend only on your shared accounts.
Consider how much money you will need to provide for yourself and your children during the divorce process before the assets are divided.
Find a Support Network
Divorce is stressful and emotionally taxing. Decide who you can trust with the information that you plan to file for dissolution of marriage. Reach out to family or close friends to help you through the challenges.
Whether you need somewhere to stay, financial backup, or someone to talk to, it’s valuable to have a support network.
Protect Yourself
If you are in an unsafe marriage, plan for your safety. Know where you will live after filing for divorce if you are not safe staying in your home. We can work with you to file a restraining or protective order.
Cases involving domestic violence are more complex, but it is also critical to have a solid plan in place.
Understand the Impact of Divorce
Ending a marriage is a significant decision. It is not something to take lightly. Before you move forward with a divorce, ensure you understand how your life will change. When you feel hurt or angry, the grass can look greener on the other side. Yet, divorce disrupts your entire life for you and your children.
Consider how it will affect your financial future, where you live, your relationships with family and friends, and your children. You may decide that ending your marriage is the best step to creating a more joyful and peaceful life. But, if you aren’t sure, seek other options, like counseling. We want you to make the best decision for your quality of life and peace of mind.
Invest in Your Future
Divorce is a big decision. Start the process with the right tools and plan in place. Philip Goldberg PC offers expert family law services, including dissolution of marriage. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
