So You’re Thinking About Divorce…
You know that you are ready to begin the process of formal, legal separation. How can you do it in such a way that is most amicable? How can you make it as painless and quick as possible for both of you? Here are ten tips:
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Read Up on Mediation
Mediation is a process that may help prevent litigation and costly court battles. If you and your spouse agree about the results of the separation, and are generally getting along, then working with a mediator can save time and money. If there are no disputes you foresee, particularly regarding custody, then the mediation route can make a great deal of sense.
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Organize Your Finances
Smart financial planning before you begin the process is the way to go. Having a complete list of assets and debts, as well as copies of all financial records — not just tax returns, but credit card statements, car loan statements, mortgage documents, etc. — is a necessary step. Knowing your current monthly expenses as well as your projected monthly expenses will make the planning process be much more fruitful.
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Stay Positive In Front of your Children
Do not badmouth your spouse in front of the kids. As tempting as it may be, you both need to support each other, and you both need to protect the relationships each of you has with your children.
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Find Emotional Support Wherever You Can
Talk with friends, and talk with family members if that helps. There are support groups for people going through separation and divorce as well. Commiserating and talking about shared experiences will help remind you that you are not alone in this.
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Be Active in the Negotiation Process
Some people sit back and, essentially, put their head under the covers, waiting for the split to end. Do not make that mistake. Be ready to decide matters for yourself, and do not just leave the process in the hands of your lawyer or mediator.
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Treat it as a Business Deal
This is a financial transaction more than anything else. The more you can keep emotions out of it, and look at it as you would a business contract, the cleaner and more efficient it will be.
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Find a Professional to Advise You
Work with a seasoned veteran of divorce proceedings, and he or she can help you relax. The professional knows what to expect, and knows everything you need to do to protect yourself.
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Learn About the Whole Process
Know what to expect for the whole run before you begin. Talk with friends who have gotten divorces, and learn the timelines they dealt with. Ask about any surprises that reared up before the paperwork was finalized. In your mind, try to get a sense for the entirety of the process, rather than keeping your vision focused on the five feet in front of you.
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Stay Off Social Media
Do not complain about your ex in your social media feeds. Do not post the details of the split for the public to see. It is much healthier for everyone involved to keep it all offline.
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Practice Self-Care
Whatever self-care means for you, try it. Massages? Exercise? Quiet nights at home with a book? Be kind to yourself, and pamper yourself when you can. Comfort goes a long way.
Cincinnati Divorce Attorneys Ready To Help You
Set up a consultation with one of our divorce attorneys today.