Taking Action Without a Plan is a Mistake in Divorce

 The divorce process will have a major impact on you, your family, your assets and your financial future.

 Taking the time to consider what is most important to you and your family before filing a contested divorce action can save you years of litigation and many thousands of dollars.

Also, you can retain control of the process, without putting your family and your finances in the hands of a circuit judge that you have never met.

The Collaborative Divorce Process is a professional alternative that provides far greater long-term solutions than the traditional approach of “going to war” in court against your significant other.

Collaborative divorce attorneys are specially trained to identify all of the legal and factual issues in your marriage and to provide fair legal solutions without battling in court.

COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE

• Where do we start?
• Where do we end?
• How much does it cost?
• How long will it take?
• How do I schedule a collaborative divorce consultation?

It’s easy to get swayed by emotions and make hasty decisions that you’re bound to regret later. Having a plan sets you on a roadmap that guides you through the tumultuous phase in your life, providing clarity amidst chaos.

The first step towards an effective plan is understanding the legal process. But, beyond legal knowledge, what you need is a rudimentary understanding of your financial situation. A detailed review of your assets, debts, income, and expenses forms a critical part of your plan. This is not only beneficial during the division of property but also helps you plan your financial future post-divorce.

Divorce Preparation 

Start with compiling an exhaustive list of all your financial assets and obligations. Include everything – from bank accounts, retirement accounts, real estate, to credit card debts, mortgages, and student loans. This exercise will give you a concrete idea about your current financial standing.

Another critical part of your plan includes setting your post-divorce goals. What do you want your life to look like after the divorce? Do you plan to go back to school? Do you want to start a new business or change your career?

Minor Children

Do you have children?  

• How do you want to sit down with your children and your spouse to discuss divorce?
• Can you find help to prepare you and your spouse to have this discussion with your children the best way possible?  
• How do you want to create the best possible plan for you and your spouse to share time with your children?  
• Can you find help to create a custom parenting plan?
• How will you assure that you and your spouse are putting the interests of your children first?  

Making A Plan Helps

Having clear goals in mind will help you make informed decisions about your future and how to use your divorce settlement effectively.

Remember, divorce is a significant life change, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. But having a plan in place will help you navigate this challenging phase with greater clarity and confidence. It’s not just about damage control; it’s about taking charge of your life and steering it in the direction you want.

While the plan may not account for every unexpected turn, it offers a framework to guide your decisions. It allows you to act with purpose and intent rather than react in the heat of the moment.

Embarking on a divorce journey without a roadmap is like setting sail in turbulent waters without a compass. Take the time to plan and prepare. This way, you can make the transition to your new life smoother and more manageable.

If you have the resources needed to hire a professional to help you know what you don’t know, consider enlisting help.

I hope that this information is helpful for you, your friends, or your clients. If you, or a friend of yours, has questions about Collaborative Divorce, we are here to help.