If you are unhappy in a marriage, the thought of divorcing your partner might be dominating your mind each day. While ending a relationship is not easy, it might be the best decision for your future.
However, before you leave your partner for good, you must take the steps to protect yourself before you separate. Here are four considerations to make before asking for a divorce.
- The Best Divorce Attorney
If you are certain about separating from your husband or wife, you would be smart to consult various divorce attorneys as soon as possible. Interview different law firms to find a compassionate, experienced lawyer who can provide knowledgeable advice to simplify the divorce process.
For example, you could reach out to Sean Smallwood, P.A., an Orlando divorce attorney, as he has extensive family law experience. Picking an attorney who specializes in family law will take the stress out of the divorce process. They will guide you through every step and offer the correct legal support, which will provide greater confidence when the time comes to ask your partner for a divorce.
- Your Finances
It is a wise idea to organize your financial documents before asking and filing for a divorce. Unfortunately, your partner might become hostile during proceedings and might not be forthcoming with documents. For this reason, you must gather together copies of various documents related to:
- Savings
- Property
- Retirement income
- Investments
- Life insurance policies
- Tax returns
Also, you may need to move out of your shared home. Therefore, it could help to organize your finances, find an affordable property, and set money aside for various living expenses.
- Child Custody
Divorcing a partner likely will not feel easy, especially if you have children. However, it is important for everyone’s future to separate from your partner if you are unhappy in your marriage. Unfortunately, you and your husband or wife might have different ideas on how to raise your children, as you might want full or shared custody.
Again, it is a wise idea to talk to a family law lawyer to understand your rights regarding child custody. Plus, they can run calculations to estimate how much financial support your children will need from you or your partner.
- Valuables
In addition to gathering financial documents together, you must take inventory of your valuables. For example, you should take photographs of the following items:
- Safety deposit box contents
- Jewellery
- Furniture
- Paintings
- Rare memorabilia
It might help to take a copy of property insurance policies, too, as it is common for companies to request a list of valuables homeowners would like insured.
Conclusion
If you are unhappy in your marriage, you could turn around your relationship by talking honestly with your partner and/or attending marriage counselling. However, if you no longer want to be in a relationship with your husband and wife, divorce might be the best option for all parties. While the process is not easy, it could help you to move forward with your life.
