Getting through a divorce is one of people’s most difficult times. But when you take the time to prepare and think ahead, you can work your way through it more efficiently. Here’s an expanded divorce checklist of 15 Dos & Donʼts for you to remember when filing your papers.
Divorce Checklist: 15 Dos and Don’ts in 2024
8 Dos to Add to Your Divorce Checklist
1. Do Seek Legal Counsel
A family law lawyer has the expertise to advise you on how best to navigate your situation. They know the newest rules and can help protect your interests during negotiations or in court.
Look up family law attorneys and meet with a few to find one that fits your situation and budget.
2. Do Gather Financial Documents
One of the most important pieces is perhaps accurate financial information, ensuring the fair division of assets and liabilities. This also comes into play when calculating alimony and child support.
Gather three years of tax returns, recent pay stubs, bank statements, investment accounts, retirement accounts, and other financial records.
3. Establish Credit in Your Name
A decent credit score post-divorce may be your ticket to independent housing, loans, and credit cards.
Open a credit card or small loan under your own name. Use it wisely and always seek to clear the bill by the due date to build your credit.
4. Do Consider Mediation
Divorce mediation can resolve the matter more quickly, minimize conflict, and put the terms of an agreement into the hands of both parties.
Locate an Accredited Divorce Mediator. Be willing to compromise and express your needs and fears.
5. Do Prioritize Your Children
The changes after a divorce can be difficult for children to accept. The key is to keep their routine stable and ensure that both parents love them.
Develop a parenting plan with your spouse to lessen the impact on your children. Remember their needs during the decision-making stage. For more details, read our guide about divorce with children.
6. Be Mindful of Social Media
One should not share information over social media, thinking it cannot be misunderstood or used against him/her in legal proceedings.
Minimize distractions from social media. Do not post about your divorce or things that would look bad to a Judge.
7. Take Inventory of your Assets and Debts
Knowing what you own and owe to ensure an equitable distribution and that nothing is left off the table.
Make a list of all property obtained during the marriage and any debts, including property, vehicles, jewelry, artwork, and loans.
8. Do Set Aside Emergency Funds
There may be cases when unexpected expenses will come up. An emergency fund can help you deal with these costs.
Save enough money to cover all your expenses until the end of the case.
7 Don’ts to Add to Your Divorce Checklist
9. Don’t Make Rash Decisions
Hasty decisions can lead to lifelong repercussions. In times of emotional turmoil, we are left vulnerable to decisions that may not have our greatest interest once everything has settled.
Major decisions require time. Before you take action, please speak with your attorney or a financial expert.
10. Keep the Kids Out of Conflict
It is harmful to expose children to adult conflicts.
Always talk to your spouse directly about divorce. Shelter your kids from any hatred.
11. Don’t Hide Assets
Transparency is key. Concealing assets is a crime and can be extremely damaging to your reputation and cause.
Disclose all assets. Tell your lawyer if you think your husband or wife might have some assets hidden away somewhere.
12. Don’t Skip Therapy
Professional counseling can help you work through your feelings.
Find a therapist specializing in divorce. Attend regular sessions and join support groups.
13. Consider Tax Implications Carefully
Divorce can also drastically affect taxes, income, and net worth.
Seek the advice of a tax expert to understand how asset division, alimony, and child support may affect your taxes.
14. Don’t Do It Alone
Support systems offers you emotional comfort, to say the least, as well as practical advice in case things get tough.
Contact family and friends, or consider joining a support group. You can share your experience and listen to others who have gone through similar situations.
15. Don’t Ignore Your Well-being
If you are not healthy, there is no way in the world you will be making good decisions.
Get your body moving, eat well, sleep enough and pursue hobbies that makes you feel good.
Divorce Checklist: A way to be prepared and come out on top
These detailed divorce checklist of do’s and don’ts should help you to overcome all the difficulties that may be caused by divorce. You will know what to do and how to do it. So, stay informed, consult professionals, and take care of you emotional and physical health anyway.
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