Not all relationships end happily ever after. After the “I do,” all couples go back to their normal routines where they encounter issues that test their love for each other. When things get rocky to the point that both parties are unhappy, then it might be time to go their separate ways. If you are considering a divorce, here are some things you have to do:
Talk to a Legal Expert
The first thing you need to do is to understand the process that you and your spouse are about to go through. Contact a family law solicitors in Townsville with whom you can discuss your situation, tell you all your options, and offer an expert’s advice on how to proceed.
Divorce is a difficult process. It will ease the stress if you have someone who has your best interest in mind guiding you along the way.
Think Things Through
Sometimes, when emotions are high, people say words that they do not really mean. A divorce takes months, or even longer, to finalise so making the decision to leave your marriage should not be made on a whim.
Think things through. Talking to a solicitor about the process and its aftermath can help you determine if you can still fix the issues you are currently facing or if it is the right move for you and your partners to go your separate ways.
Consider How it Will Affect Your Children
Expect that the divorce proceedings will take a toll on your physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. You also should brace for your finances to take a serious hit.
However, in every divorce, the process is most difficult for children who are caught in between. Unfortunately, many grow up harboring feelings of guilt and resentment for their parents’ situation.
As much as possible, you and your spouse should separate peacefully. A mediator will be able to help both parties to reach an agreement over child custody, financial support, and property settlement without going to court.
Before the separation, you should be able to sit down with your children, explain to them what is about to happen, and assure them that the divorce is not their fault. Your children should still feel loved even if their parents are about to live in different houses (and potentially have new partners).
Hire Your Own Lawyer
If mediation does not work, you and your ex will have to face each other in court. Although hiring just one lawyer will save you money, it would not be a good idea in the long run. When you are fighting for your child’s custody or control for your possessions, your lawyer will be on your side. Your lawyer will be the one to negotiate with the other party to give you a favourable or fair outcome.
Make an Inventory of Your Possessions and Make Copies of Documents
List down all the major items inside your home, where they are located, and their estimated values. This includes artworks, jewellry, appliances, vehicles, etc. During this time, you should also photocopy documents that may be relevant to the case such as tax returns, bank statements, investment statements, retirement account statements, automobile titles, and prenuptial agreements.
Moreover, consider updating your will. This will ensure that your assets will fall into the right hands in case something bad happens to you.