Tips to Remember During a Divorce

Experiencing a divorce can be one of the most stressful experiences in life. However, being informed, knowing what to expect and preparing for important steps may reduce the strain associated with the experience. Below you will find some tips to remember throughout the divorce to ease the process.

Before

• Manage the difficult emotions that come when your relationship is past the point of reconciliation, and seek support, including professional resources, as necessary for your well-being.
• Collect financial information as soon as you recognize the marriage is not salvageable or if you notice that suspicious financial activity is occurring.
• Keep the best interests of your children in focus at all times.

During

• Be honest and accurate in all disclosures, including financial information.
• Save yourself time and money by cooperating completely with your attorney if information is requested.
• Advise your attorney of all important developments of which he or she should be aware, such as significant changes like loss of job, newly discovered assets or debts, or parent-child issues.
• Understand the meaning of court orders that restrict or limit behaviors. Do not hesitate to ask your attorney for help in these matters.
• Be cautious when communicating with your spouse during divorce proceedings. Mistakes can easily be made with emails, texts or on social media. Often these communications can easily be forwarded to opposing counsel, family members and/or friends.
• Seek settlement when your spouse assumes a reasonable position on issues. This can lead to a more predictable outcome and control costs involved with litigation.
• Develop realistic expectations and/or forecast your financial situation following the dissolution of your marriage.
• Avoid domestic violence at all times and report incidents promptly if you or your children are the victim of abuse.

After

• Continue to keep the best interests of your children in focus.
• Consult with your legal counsel if circumstances develop regarding enforcement or interpretation of the Divorce Judgement.
• Keep your emotional health and that of your children as a priority. Divorce is a stressful event for all people involved, so do not hesitate to seek professional help to work through the mental strain in productive ways.

This article was originally published October 20, 2015 and updated in January 2021.