The range of emotions you may experience during the divorce process is immense. One of the root causes of this is that your life no longer seems predictable. You and your former spouse had a vision for the future that no longer applies. When the foundation of your life erodes, you can end up feeling unstable and uncertain. We understand. The following is a list of people’s most common questions and concerns. If you identify with one or more of these, take comfort in knowing that you are not alone right now and that others have felt what you are experiencing.
- Do I have to move out?
- What does the divorce process look like? Will I need to go to court?
- How can I protect our assets?
- Will I have to go back to work right away?
- What is the right parenting plan for my family and me?
- Will my choice to stay home to raise the children hurt my financial future?
- How can I keep my children safe if I am in an abusive relationship?
A family law attorney can help guide you through this period in your life. At a time when you may feel disempowered, we work to help you assume control over your future – to feel empowered. With that in mind, let’s look at what you can do right now if you are considering beginning the divorce process, or if you are already involved in it.
How to Empower Yourself
Building a team of professionals to guide you through the divorce process is a good place to start. If you aren’t seeing a therapist, consider reaching out and establishing contact with one. While you may feel you don’t need one now, you may one as the process unfolds. Given how challenging it is right now to find available therapists, it is a good idea to ask around for the names of good therapists and to call and make an appointment for a consultation.
Another member of your “team” is a family law attorney, and preferably a certified family law specialist. Find one that you connect with and make an appointment for a consultation. Lawyers use initial consultations to find out if they are in a position to help. As a client, you are using the consultation to determine whether you are comfortable working with this person and having them represent you.
Next, use this time to gather information that you will need going forward. Begin making copies of mortgage paperwork, credit cards, tax records, bank statements, investments, and life insurance policies. Your attorney will need this information, so gathering these documents will not be a wasted effort. Because you will have to divide your community assets and debts, start making a list of all your major ones. If you are not sure whether the item is “community property” or not, add it to the list anyway. Remember, each act is one step forward toward becoming more empowered.
You should also have an idea of how much money flows in and out of your household. For example, you should have pay stubs or tax records to demonstrate what you and your spouse earn and be aware of your monthly expenses.
Find Your New Beginning
During this time, you may need legal assistance. Empower Law Group will guide you through the legal process, and we can help in other ways too. We have developed a strong network of professional service providers including therapists, financial planners, forensic accountants, and more. Contact us today to speak with attorney Johanna Kleppe, a Certified Family Law Specialist.
Empower Law Group
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