If you are thinking about divorce, there are a lot of things to consider. Set out below are some measures that you should take into account if a divorce is imminent.
Speak with a divorce lawyer
If you are considering a divorce, see a divorce lawyer. There are several legal ramifications tied to separation and divorce, so it’s important to understand them as soon as possible. Understanding your legal rights and obligations early on can help you reduce stress and prepare for the future.
When you speak with a divorce lawyer, you’ll get more information on which procedure to use to address the issues caused by your split. Should you engage in negotiations, mediation, collaborative law, or litigation? Before getting started, consider these process concerns.
Organize your documents
You should begin collecting documents that will be relevant to your family law scenario. This includes your marriage certificate, tax returns, assessment notifications, bank statements, investment statements, pension papers, life insurance policies, and debts. Divorce is a complicated procedure, and it will not go as smoothly as you may think. It’s critical to stay organized throughout the divorce process because time spent organizing paperwork might be costly when it comes to money. Divorce proceedings are bound to include financial issues that will require financial disclosure from both parties. Getting prepared in advance will save you time and make the process less stressful. Your lawyer will provide you with all of the necessary forms so that you can gather documents for the given dates.
Make a Plan
If you and your spouse are still living together, now is the time to think about where you will reside in the future. If you have children, this might influence their school, extra-curricular activities, and whether or not a new family doctor is required. Begin developing a budget and understanding the real cost of relocation , which will most certainly include moving expenses, storage fees, and other expenses.
Stay in the matrimonial home
If there are no major security concerns, it is usually suggested that you wait in your marital home until your issue has been resolved. This is especially true if child custody is a problem that will most likely be fought over. It’s also generally easier to stay at home while your family law issues are being worked out. However, as with every situation, contact a family lawyer for advice.
Protect your information
It is important to update all of your passwords for personal accounts, such as your bank account, computer, email, and so on. It is also a good idea to store valuable personal belongings in a safe place to avoid any conflict over the ownership of items belonging to another spouse.
Separate Finances
In the event of a divorce, individuals are generally advised to establish their own bank accounts and manage their money separately. If you and your spouse continue to live in the same residence while sharing expenses, it’s critical that you work out an interim arrangement on how living costs will be shared until you physically split from the home. If there are substantial amounts stored in joint accounts, consult with a family lawyer about how the division of joint assets might happen if parties have joint accounts.
Focus on your health
The emotional and mental health of a person may become jeopardized when going through a divorce and separation. It is even more critical to concentrate on your mental and emotional well-being during these times. Do not hesitate to seek assistance from a therapist so that you can manage the effects of the split. Discussing things with close friends and relatives is also very beneficial. Having a powerful support system throughout this period can be quite useful.
Focus on the children
The children should always come first. In most situations, parties will enter into an interim parenting plan to allow for a modified schedule until the divorce procedure and separation agreement agreement are completed. It’s critical to maintain things as normal as possible for your children while you’re going through a divorce. Furthermore, both parents would benefit from remaining active in their children’s lives. As well, avoid talking about the divorce or making negative remarks to one another when the children are around. The mental and emotional health of the children must come first during this significant life transition.
For more information on how to get a divorce in Ontario, or for family legal services, please contact our DivorceLawyers.ca here.
NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER: This material is offered for educational purposes and should not be used as legal advice. Please contact a family lawyer if you require legal services.
