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Law Office of Andrew A. Bestafka, Esq. > Articles > 5 Things to Consider Before You File for Divorce

5 Things to Consider Before You File for  Divorce

Making the decision to get a divorce is never easy. However, once a person reaches a point in their marriage at which they can no longer envision a future with their partner, they may decide that divorce is their only option. When a person reaches this point, it is important to consider a number of different factors before going through with a divorce in order to make the outcome as beneficial as possible and to avoid any errors which may arise. The following are five of the most important of these considerations.

Know your family’s financial situation

Regardless of your reasons for wanting a divorce, it is critical that you understand the financial situation shared by you and your spouse. Begin by compiling an inventory of all assets and debts that you and your spouse may possess, placing a monetary value on as many things as you can. Next, try to get copies of as many financial records as you can. Also, determine as best you can what your spouse’s income is, from wages earned through work as well as any other sources.

Determine your living arrangements following the separation

Whether you plan on staying in your marital home or moving out, it is important that you have your plan ready before you begin the divorce process. If you are thinking of moving out, know where you want to move and be aware of the potential impact that this can have on your case and your ability to see your children. If you wish to stay in your home, it is important to consider whether your spouse has a history of violent behavior and whether you may need to file for a protective order. You may also want to designate a friend or relative with whom you can stay in case of an emergency situation.

Consider what type of child custody and support arrangement you may want

If you have a child, the divorce process can be much more complicated, as issues such as custody, visitation, child support, and parental decision-making may all need to be resolved. You should spend some time thinking about your ideal custody arrangement, your likelihood of receiving the arrangement you want, and the amount of child support which you may need.

Be aware that your behavior will be under close scrutiny throughout the divorce process

When you choose to undergo a divorce, you need to be on your best behavior throughout the process in order to avoid doing anything which could be potentially damaging to your case. Particularly if it is necessary to go to court, your actions throughout the divorce proceedings will be carefully scrutinized and could potentially affect your ability to see your children, the amount of spousal or child support which you may receive, and the distribution of your property.

Consult with an attorney before proceeding

Before you file for a divorce, it is best to consult with an experienced legal professional to understand exactly what your rights and options may be. Even if you don’t anticipate any difficulties arising, it is always best to have a complete understanding of your position and the outcome which you can expect. The best way to do this is to discuss your situation with a qualified lawyer.

Contact Us

Going through a divorce can be one of the most difficult times in your life. However, by pursuing the services of an experienced attorney, you can focus on what matters most right now. Contact a Monmouth County divorce lawyer at the Law Office of Andrew A. Bestafka, Esq., today at (732) 898-2378 to discuss the details of your situation with a qualified legal professional and learn more about your rights and options under the law.