Divorce is a major life transition, and, for some, navigating the proceedings can be just as challenging as adjusting to life after marriage. Even couples who foresee an amicable split are likely to face hurdles, but they do not have to overcome them alone. Seasoned divorce lawyers are skilled at mitigating potential disputes and protecting their clients’ best interests—even before they file. If you’re considering separating from your spouse, Michael A. Newland Law Office offers the following advice.

What to Do Before You File for a Divorce

1. Copy All Essential Documents

Make copies of all essential financial documents, and file them in a safe place that your spouse cannot access. These will come in handy once the proceedings begin. Having your own copies will make it much harder for the opposing party to withhold any assets or lie about their current value during the negotiations.  

2. Take a Break From Social Media

When it comes to gathering evidence for any legal dispute, social media is fair game. This applies to criminal trials, personal injury cases, and even divorce proceedings. Divorce lawyers typically advise clients that the opposing party will find a way to use anything they post against them, even if they don’t talk about the case directly in their online profile.

3. Establish Your Own Credit History

If you merged finances from the start, much of your credit history may consist of joint accounts, which will likely be closed during the proceedings. As soon as you decide to file, it is wise to start establishing credit in your name. For example, you may want to apply for a card to use sparingly.

If you want to end your marriage in Ohio and need legal guidance from a strategic divorce lawyer, turn to the Michael A. Newland Law Office in Hamilton. For over 20 years, he has been proudly assisting clients with various family law matters, like child custody. You can rely on him to protect your best interests with quality counsel and representation. Call (513) 887-9595 to schedule an initial consultation today.