Making the decision to separate from a partner is never an easy one, regardless of how long you’ve been together. It becomes much more complicated if you are married, and can feel overwhelming at times to go through the process. If you’re considering a divorce, keep the following considerations in mind to ease some of your stress and help the proceedings move smoothly.
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Hire an Attorney
Even the most amicable divorce needs some mediation, which is why your first step should be to consider finding a divorce attorney in Knoxville, TN, to assist with your divorce proceedings. Having an attorney will provide you with someone who will advocate for your interests and ensure a fair separation.
Draft a Custody Agreement
If you and your spouse share minor children, you will want to draft a custody petition to be filed with your local family court. Work with your attorneys to determine a schedule that is fair for both of you. Remember, if you ever want to change your custody agreement you can do so by filing a new petition with the court.
Gather Documents
Organize all the necessary documents you may need to proceed with your divorce. This includes marriage certificates, joint loans or mortgages, credit cards or other financial debt, and any joint bank accounts you may share. These items need to be included as part of your assets and debts so make sure you have everything necessary to make it easier for the attorneys when they’re drafting your divorce papers.
Discuss Splitting Assets
In addition to dividing your debts and financial assets, you will want to consider how you want to separate other assets you may share. This includes real estate property, vehicles, antiquities, and other valuables you’ve collected during your marriage. If you have difficulties deciding how to split assets, your attorney can help with the decision-making process.
Find Support
Divorce is not an easy life event to go through, so find a strong support system to assist you during this difficult time. Whether it’s a trusted friend, family member, or counselor, it’s beneficial to have someone close to talk to when you need it. It’s especially important to have support if you have young children. You want to keep things as normal as possible for them and don’t want to burden them with your struggles, so be sure you share any feelings you’re having with another adult.
Look Forward
As difficult as a divorce can be, you both chose to end your marriage because of compatibility issues. Try to look toward the future and a fresh start once your divorce has been finalized. You’ll need to figure out who you are post-marriage, so plan to take some time for yourself once your divorce is behind you. Perhaps you’ll move to a new city or start a new career to kick off your new life. Having something to look forward to can make the process easier.
Remember, divorce doesn’t have to be the end of a fulfilling life. You are simply starting a new chapter that you get to write on your own.
