The ideal divorce is an amicable one. If you’re seeking to file a divorce from your spouse, you should first work out issues that might complicate the process as early as possible. Obviously, it’s not easy to do so, and few couples are lucky enough to remain civil. If your divorce is likely to become adversarial, it’s important to take reasonable steps to safeguard your interests.
Hire legal help
If you’re unable to agree on issues regarding your divorce with your spouse, you’ll have to go to court. You’ll need an experienced divorce lawyer in Colorado Springs to represent you there. A divorce lawyer will be able to walk you through the complex legal process you’ll have to navigate and present specific strategies to prepare you for whatever may come. Working closely with one significantly increases the chance of you receiving the best possible results at the conclusion of the divorce.
Gather as much information as possible
To build a strong case, you’ll need to gather as much relevant financial information as possible. Although you have the right to full financial disclosure during the discovery phase of your divorce, you’ll be saving yourself a lot of money and time if you collate this information before the divorce proceedings.
Assemble your support system
Going through a divorce will be incredibly taxing on your physical and emotional health. That’s why building a support system is incredibly crucial before you go through this difficult process. Your support system can start with your family and friends who understand your situation and can offer moral support. You can also extend this circle to include a therapist who you can discuss your feelings with, a trustworthy lawyer who can point you in the right direction, and even a financial advisor to help you balance your fiscal matters.
Close any joint credit cards and bank accounts
Contact your credit card company and bank and inform them of your situation. Let them close your joint accounts off from future purchases. Don’t forget to follow-up on this request with a certified letter. You’ll need to cover all the charges and remaining balance including interest first, though, or else they won’t be able to close the account completely.
Make copies of important documents and records
While you’re in the process of collating important documents, such as your birth certificate, diplomas, and marriage certificate, make sure to make at least two copies of everything and store them in a safe location. This is especially important for joint-owned documentation like tax returns, titles, bank statements, etc.
Safeguard your most valuable items
Stow away valuable personal items such as photographs, personal mementos, or personal collections in a safe location. This only applies to your personal possessions and not common property. Try to discuss this with your spouse if possible.
Refrain from signing anything
If you’re offered a document to sign, politely tell the person offering it to you that you’ll be glad to sign it, but that your lawyer has advised you not to sign anything until they have a chance to read through it. Unless you fully understand what it is you’re authorising, the safest option would be to refrain from signing anything until you meet with your lawyer to discuss things.
As much as possible, you should work together with your spouse throughout the divorce to expedite the process. When that’s not possible, you’ll have to take the necessary precautions to safeguard you and your children legally, financially, and physically.