Preparing for divorce is never easy, but the time and energy that you put into getting your affairs in order and preparing a legal strategy may mean the difference between an ultimately satisfying or unsatisfying resolution.
Unlike marriage, which is a simple process, divorce must address several specific areas before a court renders a final judgment. If you do not understand what you have to lose in these areas, you may realize too far into the process that you planned poorly and forfeited something you wish you had not.
From a bird’s-eye view, divorce must address at least four areas for couples without children and at least five for couples who do have children. All couples must address
- Division of marital property, including debts
- Spousal support
- Personal restraining orders or guidelines around interaction with each other
- Legal fees and court costs
In addition, parents with children must address
- Child custody matters, including division of parenting privileges and responsibilities
- Child support obligations
In your own circumstances, if you do not have a specific plan to achieve the divorce you want, it is very unlikely that you will stumble upon it. While this is technically possible, divorce is a famously difficult experience, even when it is needed and an ultimately positive step for one or both spouses.
Make sure that you understand your priorities in each of these areas if you find yourself facing the end of your marriage. Without a carefully constructed divorce strategy, it is easy to lose track of what is important in the emotional strain of the process. Do not pass up this opportunity to protect yourself and your future with a divorce strategy that uses the strength of the law to keep your rights secure.