It’s estimated that nearly 700,000 divorces occur each year. While divorce can be the right decision for many couples, there’s no denying that it’s a painful experience for everyone involved.
Not only that, but it can also be a confusing and stressful one. That’s why it’s important to know some things before you file for divorce. First, this lets you decide if divorce is the right decision for you.
Second, it helps you begin to prepare for the process. So in this guide, we’ll take a closer look at five things every person should consider before they begin the divorce process.
1. Contested Divorces Are More Expensive
Ideally, you and your spouse will be able to reach a consensus on things like property law division and child custody. This is what’s known as an uncontested divorce.
These types of divorces are not only easier, but they’ll also be far more affordable. If you contest the divorce, you’re going to prolong the process.
Getting divorced will also be far more expensive because of legal costs and court fees. While sometimes this is necessary, it is something you need to keep in mind.
2. Different States Have Different Laws
You’ll need to familiarize yourself with the specific laws in your state surrounding divorce. These laws can dictate everything from the grounds you’ll need for divorce to the way you divide up your property.
For example, with Arizona community property laws any assets (or debts) accumulated during the marriage must be divided up equally.
3. You’ll Need to Establish Your Credit
Many spouses use shared credit during their marriage. While this likely helped you both purchase a car or house, it’s important to remember that it all goes away after the divorce.
That’s why it’s important to start building up good credit on your own as soon as you can. We recommend taking out a credit card in your name.
4. You’ll Need a Parenting Plan
If you have kids, you’ll need to have a tough talk about a parenting plan. Sometimes this is relatively straightforward. Other times it can result in a bitterly contested divorce and custody battle.
One way or another, whether it’s amicably or appointed by a judge, a parenting plan will need to be reached. In some cases, it will require a lot of compromise.
5. You Can Benefit From an Attorney
If you’re going through a contested divorce, a divorce attorney is a requirement. However, if your divorce is uncontested, you can typically file yourself without the help of a divorce lawyer.
That being said, we still recommend having one review your papers before you file. That way, you’re sure it’s fair and free of errors.
Appreciate ‘What to Know Before You File for Divorce?’ – Keep Exploring
We hope this guide helped you learn more about the things you should consider before you file for divorce. One of the most important pieces of advice during the divorce process is to take the high road.
If you or your partner let it, divorce can get ugly quickly. And if the divorce goes to court, bad behavior can be used against you. So try to keep it professional even when it hurts to do so.
Want more legal advice? We have loads of similar content on our website so keep exploring to find it all.
