Making the decision to file for divorce can result in a person becoming overwhelmed with emotions, that can likely lead to rushed decisions. There are consequences to making rash decisions, however, so it is important to gather your thoughts and be patient while taking the steps necessary to follow before making the final decision to file for divorce.
1. Consider the different options that are available to you. You can choose a traditional divorce process, where you and your spouse each hire an attorney, financial expert and any other sources that are necessary. You can choose collaborative divorce, which consists of collaborative attorneys and other experts who work with you and your spouse to provide legal, financial and emotional support, while then facilitating a settlement process that takes into consideration the interests of both parties and the children. There is also mediation, when a mediator takes a neutral position in an effort to facilitate the divorce process. Mediation can also involve legal, financial and other divorce experts.
2. Find a good divorce lawyer. The experienced Glendale divorce attorneysat The Sampair Group will look at the unique circumstances of your case to help you and your spouse settle all issues present and are willing to litigate your case before a judge should the need arise.
3. Look into marriage counseling, or at least counseling for yourself. A divorce should be a last step rather than a first step, and marriage counseling is an opportunity to see if the marriage can be saved. It can also be used to build a support system for yourself. A third reason to look to marriage counseling is to make sure you know everything you can about how you are and how you can prevent yourself from making the same mistakes and marrying the same type of person again in the future.
4. It is important to prepare a budget that will meet your needs and new single lifestyle once the divorce is final. In most cases, the combined expenses for a couple or family may increase after a divorce. Having two households instead of one can result in both you and your spouse having to pay for some of the same expenses. Knowing this in advance gives you the chance to prepare and consider additional sources of income or create support arrangements between you and your spouse.