Some Additional Starting Ideas

Knowing your marriage is over is just the beginning. Starting the divorce process can feel daunting, but taking proactive steps now can set the stage for a smoother, less stressful experience.  I am asked routinely by people on how to begin untangling their marriage.  Here is my list of ten additional starting points to help you get divorced amicably.

10 Additional Starting Ideas

1. Prioritize Your Well-being: If you’re struggling emotionally, don’t hesitate to seek help. Therapy or counseling can provide invaluable support during this challenging time. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s essential for making sound decisions and being the best version of yourself for your children and yourself.

2. Check Your Credit: Get a free copy of your credit report from CreditKarma or NerdWallet. This will give you a clear picture of your financial situation and help you identify any joint debts or accounts that need to be addressed during your divorce.

3. Establish Financial Independence: Open a separate bank account in your own name and have your paycheck deposited there. This will help you establish financial independence and ensure you have access to your own funds during the divorce process.

4. Inventory Your Assets: Make a comprehensive list of all your assets, including bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, real estate, vehicles, and other valuable property.

5. List Your Debts: Include all debts, such as credit cards, loans, medical bills, and student loans. Understanding your financial obligations is crucial for a fair settlement.

6. Talk to Your Spouse (If Possible): If you can have a calm, rational conversation with your soon-to-be-ex, start discussing how you might divide your assets and debts equitably. This could involve deciding who keeps the house, how to split retirement accounts, or how to handle shared debts.

7. Take the Parenting Class: If you have children, both you and your co-parent must complete the Parenting Communication Course offered by either North America Learning or Children First. This course provides valuable insights on how to co-parent effectively and minimize conflict.

8. Discuss Parenting Time: Start talking about how you’ll share parenting time with your children. Consider holidays, school breaks, and everyday routines. The goal is to create a plan that prioritizes your children’s well-being and fosters a positive co-parenting relationship.

9. Prepare to Tell Your Children: This is a difficult conversation, but honesty and reassurance are key. Focus on letting your children know that the divorce isn’t their fault and that both parents will always love them.

10. Seek Legal Guidance: If you and your spouse can reach agreements on these issues, I can help you turn those agreements into a legally binding divorce settlement. I focus on amicable, out-of-court resolutions that save you time, money, and stress.

If you’re ready to take the next step, call my office at 618-726-2671 or reach out through my website for a free consultation. Let’s discuss your situation and explore how I can help you achieve a peaceful and fair divorce.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is not intended as a substitute for professional legal advice. Please consult with an attorney to discuss your specific situation and legal options.