The emotional rollercoaster that comes with divorce can significantly affect the way people think. Negative emotions usually force spouses to jump on the idea of divorce instead of wading through it slowly. However, there are negative consequences of not getting your facts and life in order before filing for divorce. If you want a divorce, here are a few things that you should consider doing before filing for a divorce.
Know your current financial standing
You need to have a clear view of where you and your spouse stand financially. One of the major objectives of a divorce process is to ensure equitable distribution of debts and marital assets. For you to get a fair settlement during the divorce settlement negotiations, you need to know what you have and what you owe.
Close all joint credit accounts
Before divorcing, you should pay off and close all your joint credit accounts. Closing these accounts before the divorce proceedings will prevent an angry spouse from using the account or even running up charges that you may have to pay for in future. You should also alert all creditors that you are going through the divorce and inform them if there is a change of address. Make sure that you pay all your bills on time to ensure that it does not affect your credit score.
Hire the right divorce attorney
Make sure that you interview several attorneys before you make a decision. Always go with a lawyer who has at least five years of experience in family and divorce law. You should be looking for a legal representative who understands the value of settling quickly and will also fight for your interests whenever the need arises. Check out https://www.vhdlaw.com/locations/west-bend/ to get the best divorce attorney for your case.
Get proof of income
You need to have documentation that shows your income and that of your spouse. If both spouses are salaried employees, then you will need copies of your recent pay slips and income tax returns. Determining income may be challenging if your spouse is self-employed. However, copies of financial business statements and bank account statements can give a clear picture of their income.
Create a post-divorce budget
It is important for you to figure out your post-divorce budget. This will help you determine the finances that you will have to live on after you get a divorce. This will enable you to know what it will take for you to successfully run the house on your own. Make sure you know the cost of living that will be after your divorce. This is important because some people may have a drastic drop in their income after divorce. It is best that you are always prepared by creating a budget early instead of waiting and being hit by bills that you will be unable to pay for.
You should always take the high road. This means that you should avoid partying, dating or staying out until wee hours of the morning. If child custody is a key issue in your divorce case, then make sure that you make your kids a priority. You should not just act like a good father or mother, but be one. This is a stressful time for your children and you need to focus and cater to their needs.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
