Formally separating from your spouse requires a lot of careful planning to assure you get a settlement you deserve. There are a few vital steps, like hiring a dedicated divorce lawyer, you should take to put yourself in the best position to succeed after the divorce.

How to Get Ready for Divorce

1. Get Your Financial Information in Order

The most complicated part of divorce is the division of assets between you and your spouse. In addition to physical possessions, like property, these finances include retirement accounts, self-employment income, and other investments you share. Assuring that all assets are on the table when the negotiations start can confirm that you receive what you are due in your settlement.

2. Mentally Prepare for the Proceedings

Divorce is a long and arduous process that requires more conflict to absolve you from your marriage. While it can be tempting to make rash choices to expedite the proceedings, patience is the key to an outcome that best suits your future. Try to remain level-headed in negotiations and maintain your integrity if conversations become heated.

For parents, another factor to consider is custody of your child. Anticipate that conversation between you, your spouse, and your respective divorce lawyers and seriously factor in what living situation would work best for your child’s welfare. Most importantly, if you have children, keep them out of the stress of the separation. Do not force them to pick sides or bad mouth their other parent. After the divorce is final, even though you will become relatively free from your ex-spouse besides the day-to-day of your children’s lives, your kids still have to maintain a full relationship with both of you. 

3. Consult a Divorce Lawyer

Having an experienced divorce lawyer on your side can completely change the dynamic of negotiations. Even if you have a relatively amicable relationship with your soon-to-be ex, it is important to acknowledge that your priorities are no longer aligned the second you decide to separate. A divorce lawyer will decipher what is most important to you—whether it’s primary child custody or a specific piece of property—and fight to support those needs and concerns. They can help you understand what options you have and how to prepare for life after divorce with your desired settlement.

Whether your case is a simple uncontested divorce or a complicated legal battle, the attorneys at Greene Law, PC, will provide comprehensive counsel to help you through the process. This Farmington, CT, based firm aims to help you make smart decisions in negotiation meetings and assure the best outcome for your post-divorce life. For more information about the full range of legal services their attorneys provide, visit their website, and call (860) 676-1336 to schedule a free initial consultation.