Going through a divorce can be one of the most emotionally painful and mentally draining experiences a person can go through. But with a little organization and some pre-planning, you can make the divorce process much smoother and less traumatic. Here are some tips to make your divorce as painless as possible.
1. Get Organized
While this may seem like an obvious first step, it could be one of the most important. Starting the divorce process with all your ducks in a row can make things easier on you later.
Gather all pertinent financial documents, including tax returns, bank statements, and investment information. In addition, you’ll want to gather information on debts including balances and interest rates. It’s also a good idea to make a list of monthly expenses. Doing these things will not only give you a good idea of where you are financially, but the information will come in handy down the road. In addition, gathering any information on retirement accounts can also be beneficial.
Make copies of your financial information to have on hand when you meet with your divorce attorney. They can review everything with you to get a better understanding of the finances of the marriage while advising on the next moves.
2. Hire a Great Attorney
One of the most important decisions you’ll make during your divorce is choosing the right divorce lawyer to represent you. Be sure to interview several different divorce attorneys before making a decision. Ask each one about their experience handling divorces similar to yours.
A good attorney will be well-versed in Texas divorce law. They’ll discuss strategy with you and talk about what is in your best interest as well as the best interest of the children. They’re your legal beacon through the fog of divorce and will help you safely navigate to the other side, toward a fair settlement.
3. Don’t Go into Debt
During your divorce, it’s important to do everything you can to keep your finances in order. This means avoiding accruing additional debt when possible. Avoid taking out loans if you can and using credit cards excessively. Doing this will only make your situation worse. Don’t rush out to buy another car or home before the divorce is finalized. Anything purchased while you’re still married could still be considered community property. Now is the time to buckle down and be frugal when it comes to items that aren’t vital to your life or your divorce. There will be a time and place to buy a new car, a new home, or take that dream vacation, but during your divorce is not that time.
4. Communicate with Your Spouse
While it may be difficult, it’s important to try to communicate with your spouse during the divorce process. This will help you resolve issues more quickly and efficiently. If you have children, it’s also important to communicate with their other parent about custody arrangements and visitation schedules.
During this time, it’s equally important that you do not speak negatively about your spouse in front of your children. This puts your children in an even more difficult situation than they’re already in. Remember, divorce isn’t just hard on you, it’s also life-changing for your kids. Be as supportive as possible and work with the other parent to reassure the children that they’re loved by both of you. Do what you can to make the divorce process as painless as possible for them, and it will also be easier on you in the long run.
If you and your ex have a difficult time getting along, then you can limit communications to topics regarding the children while all other divorce matters are handled through your attorneys.
5. Take Care of Yourself
Divorce can be a very emotionally draining experience. Be sure to take care of yourself during this time by eating healthy, exercising, and spending time with supportive friends and family members.
Having a professional and qualified legal team can ease some of the stress of the situation as well. You’ll be able to trust your divorce attorney to handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on healing, caring for yourself, and caring for your children.
Hiring Experienced Divorce Attorneys Who Will Fight for Your Rights
By following these tips, you can make the divorce process much less painful and stressful. Remember, you are not alone. There are many resources and support groups available to help you through this difficult time.
The Jimenez Law Firm has the caring, understanding, and experience to help clients navigate their divorce journey toward a fair settlement. We’ve helped our clients make it through intense property division, and ugly custody battles, and fight for the spousal maintenance they deserve. Having us as a powerful ally in your corner allows you to focus on more important things such as mending your heart and caring for your children.
Call The Jimenez Law Firm today at (214) 513-0125 or reach out to us online to learn more about our process and what we can bring to the table in your fight for a fair settlement.
