Things to Consider before Filing for Divorce

Divorce is nothing like a casual breakup, as it involves several legal implications. Filing for a divorce is not a decision to be made in haste; apart from giving up on the person you vowed to love and cherish till eternity, there is a lot more to lose and risk. If you have been thinking of ending your relationship for quite some time, you probably have a good reason or justification. Nonetheless, consider the following questions before you pursue this life-altering decision:

Is this what you want?

If you have considered divorce multiple times but never gone through with it, you are clearly not ready. Maybe you are experiencing a midlife crisis, dealing with a loss, or struggling with your career; sometimes, the stress related to irrelative or minor issues tends to take toll on a marriage. If you are still in love with your spouse, you should try marriage counselling or couples therapy instead. You could also consider separation for a while to independently deal with your qualms and figure out what you really want.

Is there hope for Reconciliation?

Sometimes divorce is the best option for both partners in a marriage. If you two keep fighting and have no affectionate feelings towards each other, it is probably best to move on. Some issues are too big to resolve, some relationships turn too toxic to maintain, and some sacrifices are not worth the stakes. Reconciliation may become impossible in situations involving domestic violence and extramarital romances. Nonetheless, everyone makes mistakes and forgiveness gives new hope in the toughest of circumstances.

Are you and your spouse on the same page?

If you and your spouse have already discussed divorce and reached an agreement, it is certainly a healthy approach. The divorce proceedings run smoothly when both partners want the same thing. When only one of the partners is seeking divorce, it will naturally create conflict and retaliation. Surprising your spouse with divorce papers is only a good idea if you prefer drama. If you hold a grudge against your spouse or cannot tolerate them anymore, the least you can do is come clean. Deception, pretense, and hypocrisy only make everything more complicated.

Are you willing to accept change and compromise?

Divorce affects various aspects of a person’s life, including their lifestyle, day-to-day engagements, and relationship with the children. You may have to leave your current home or manage the household on your own in the future. You can only hope for achieving sole custody if the case proceeds to court; shared custody with your ex can be a challenging arrangement. If your spouse is the primary breadwinner in the house, you might need to start working fulltime to support yourself after the divorce. If you have never lived independently before, there is a lot you need to contemplate.

Have you figured out your Finances?

Division of marital assets is an integral part of divorce. You shall have to give up half of what used to be yours. Shared bank accounts, loans, and leases must be managed before initiating the divorce. Once the divorce is in progress, you will not be able to buy or sell property shared with your spouse. You also need to organize a budget for the new chapter of your life without a husband/wife. Make sure to close joint credit, so that you don’t end up compensating for your ex’s debt.

Have you consulted an Attorney? The idea of terminating a marriage is almost unreal until you have talked about it with a professional divorce lawyer. Family Law Attorney in Maryland can help you understand and dealt with a variety of matters connected to the divorce, including child custody & support, alimony, and estate planning. Your lawyer will take care of all legal documentation and negotiations with your spouse (or their legal representative), so that you don’t have to bear the headache.

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