Making the decision to seek a divorce is tough, but figuring out what you need to do after you make the decision can be even tougher. If you’ve come to a clear realization that you want a divorce, here are some of the things you should do next.
1. Get educated.
You probably don’t know the answers to all of the important questions you have, like “What type of custody and visitation plan can I get?” or “What can I expect during the division of assets?” It’s time to get some experienced advice about the law that’s specific to your situation. You’ll reduce your anxiety about the future just by knowing what is likely to happen and sorting fact from fiction.
2. Get organized.
You need to have all of your financial paperwork organized to make this a smooth process. Whether your spouse is accepting of the situation or not, having your tax returns, bank records, credit card bills and other important documents in order will make it easier to plan for your future.
3. Get real with your spouse.
If you’ve avoided the hard conversation with your spouse so far, it’s time to confront the situation head-on. If you expect the conversation to be mature and without surprises, you can simply schedule a time with your spouse for an uninterrupted conversation.
Pack the kids off to their grandparent’s home while you do it, though, so that you have plenty of free time and no distractions. If you’re worried about your spouse’s reaction, make plans to have the discussion in a relatively public place like a coffee shop.
As difficult as the next few days, weeks or months may be, you will get through it the same way you’ve gotten through everything else. It’s just a matter of taking one step at a time.
