Important Steps To Take If Your Spouse Wants A Divorce
When you got married, you likely never imagined a day when your spouse would tell you they want a divorce. If your spouse has served you with divorce papers, or they have merely mentioned that they would like to end the marriage, it is natural to feel shocked, emotional, and upset. All of these emotions can make it difficult to think clearly about the steps you must now take. However, taking the proper steps can help you obtain a more favorable outcome in the long run. Below, our Delaware County divorce lawyer explains the next steps to take.
Collect the Necessary Documents
There are many documents you will need when going through a divorce. The exact documents you need will largely depend on your own situation and the facts of your case. Generally speaking, though, divorces typically require the following documents:
- Bank statements
- Tax returns
- Mortgage loan documents
- Statements from investment accounts
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
- Any documents related to debt such as credit cards, auto loans, tax debt, student loans, and more
Collecting these documents early in the process can help you save time and give your divorce lawyer a better understanding of your finances.
Make Negotiation and Communication a Priority
During any divorce, communication is key. Communicate honestly and openly with your spouse and treat them with respect during the process. If you can discuss your concerns calmly, it can help you reach a solution that is favorable to both of you. Do not make any rash decisions or share too much information with your spouse. Doing either of these things can have a negative affect on your divorce proceedings.
Keep the Kids Out of It
If you and your spouse have children together, it is important to protect them from the divorce process as much as possible. Do not take them with you to your lawyer’s office, the courthouse, or when you have adult conversations with your spouse. Never place your child in the middle of disputes and do not talk badly about your spouse in front of them. These actions are very damaging to children and can ultimately hurt you in your divorce case.
Protect Your Finances
If divorce is imminent, it is critical to separate your finances from your spouse and secure your assets. Closely monitor any joint accounts to ensure your spouse is not wasting marital funds. Open a bank account in your name only and consider changing your passwords on certain accounts to protect your personal information. Additionally, keep detailed notes of all of your expenses and do not make major financial decisions without speaking to your lawyer first.
Contact a Divorce Lawyer in Delaware County
Divorce is never easy and to obtain the best outcome, it is highly recommended that you work with a Delaware County divorce lawyer. At Barbara Flum Stein & Associates, our Delaware County divorce lawyer can provide the sound advice you need to obtain the full settlement you deserve. Call us now at 610-565-6100 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney.
Source:
legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=23&div=0&chpt=33&sctn=1&subsctn=0
