Navigating a divorce can be very complicated. You’ve joined your life with someone else’s and now you’re detaching them. This means you have to figure out all the ways you’re connected and decide what to do about them. Of course, this can be overwhelming to deal with. If you’re in the process of separating from a spouse, here are some things to know as you navigate your divorce.
1. Why Are You Divorcing?
You need to know what is causing your divorce. Be honest with yourself and with your partner as you pin down exactly why the marriage isn’t going to work out. There are many reasons why divorces happen. In fact, 19.2% of couples say that the reason for their divorce is incompatibility, while 10.6% say it is due to drinking or drug abuse issues. It can be tricky to figure out exactly why you want a divorce. Sometimes it just seems like your life would be better after. If you can determine your exact reason, it’ll make it easier to get through the process.
2. How Will You Divide Assets?
Every marriage has some kind of assets. Even if you aren’t wealthy, you and your spouse have spent money on certain things assuming you’ll be sharing them for the rest of your life. Nearly 45% of marriages in the United States end in divorce, so many couples end up having to split that property. How will you divide everything? Everybody’s situation is different, so you’ll need to work with your partner and your lawyers to figure out a solution that works for both of you. Consider things like your house, your belongings, and the money in your bank accounts. You also need to consider other assets like bonds or digital belongings. While your situation is unique, your lawyer will have experience splitting assets like this, so make sure that you follow their professional advice.
3. What Are Your Custody Arrangements?
If you have children, you’ll need to figure out custody as you navigate your divorce. This is an extremely sensitive process, with a lot of emotions behind it. There are many types of custody arrangements and some will work better for your situation than others. During this part of the divorce process, your priority has to be your children. You need to figure out what is best for them, even if it isn’t exactly what you would want to do. If you don’t have children, sometimes you need to make arrangements for your pets. While the legal aspects of this might not be as severe, it can still be a difficult process you’ll have to figure out together.
4. Will Divorce Impact Other Parts of Your Life?
Just as your marriage had an effect on other parts of your life, so will your divorce. You need to figure out what those effects are and how your life is going to change. For instance, many people’s residential status depends on their marriage. During the first three-quarters of 2020, about 166,000 spouses of U.S. citizens received permanent resident status. This was either due to their new arrival in the country or a change in status. Consider your residential status, lifestyle, and other things that are important to you. You’ll need to figure out exactly how you’re going to manage any changes.
Navigating a divorce is a stressful, difficult process. However, you can make it easier on yourself by considering these questions. The answers will help you make decisions and figure out where to go next.
