How Do I Prepare to File for Divorce?

Legal Tips and Resources

If you have recently decided that filing for divorce is the healthiest option for your relationship, you likely have any number of questions about the divorce process itself. This is completely normal, as the formal process of divorcing is not always intuitive and is almost always overwhelming. Thankfully, you do not have to attempt to navigate the legal side of this transition alone. Working with an experienced family law attorney will help to ensure that you have access to the professional guidance and support you will need in order to make informed decisions about your situation moving forward.

Steps to Take (Ideally) Before Filing for Divorce

Most of the time, it is a good idea to take certain steps before filing for divorce. Certainly, there are certain situations in which timing is critical and it becomes more important to file quickly than it does to be proactive in your preparation. However, most of the time it is advantageous to consult your attorney about potentially beneficial steps you can take in advance of formally filing a petition for divorce.

For example, it can be helpful to make a list of all of your significant marital property. You should include all truly sentimental and/or financially valuable property, income and assets that you have acquired over the course of your marriage. This list will help your attorney to begin crafting a property division strategy for you that makes sense given your unique circumstances, priorities and needs. Similarly, if you have minor children and/or adult children with special needs who remain your dependents, you may wish to write down some thoughts about how you would like your custody agreement constructed. This can serve as a valuable “jumping off point” for custody discussions down the line.

It is also important to write down any questions you may have about any aspect of the divorce process as these questions occur to you. You want to be able to refer to your questions at a moment’s notice rather than having to recall them under pressure each time you communicate with your legal team.

Legal Assistance Is Available

If you have questions about the divorce process generally and/or timing your divorce claim specifically, please do not hesitate to connect with an experienced family law attorney today. Preparation is key when it comes to making your divorce process as efficient and effective as is possible under the circumstances. The sooner you connect with an experienced attorney, the sooner you can receive necessary guidance and legal support. Once you are empowered to make informed choices about your situation, you can work with your attorney to create a solid strategy for success. Please, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with a divorce lawyer Tampa, FL divorcees can rely on, today. These conversations are confidential, risk-free and do not compel you to take any action whatsoever. A law firm has extensive experience guiding clients through the divorce process and will answer any questions you may have. 

Thanks to The McKinney Law Group for their insight into family law and preparing to file for divorce.