How To Secretly Prepare For A Divorce
Divorce can seem like a huge decision, so much so that many people struggle to get past the mental barrier of filing. However, you do not have to file for divorce before you start preparing for one. There are many small steps that you can take toward getting a divorce to build momentum before you file. Taking small steps can help you feel more empowered and comfortable with the process. If you are nervous about how your spouse will react, it also helps to have the ball in motion before they find out.
Steps to Take to Prepare for a Divorce:
While every divorce is different, there are certain actions that will benefit most people considering filing which we will discuss below:
- Talk to an attorney. Okay, okay, we know we’re starting off strong here, but scheduling a consultation with an attorney is actually not that big of a deal, and it can have massive benefits. You might even want to schedule consultations with multiple divorce attorneys in order to find one you are comfortable with. An attorney can review your circumstances in order to determine what divorce strategy would be best for you, and help you come up with a plan and all necessary steps to take. This gets you a dedicated legal advocate as well as a game plan.
- Get a P.O. Box. You will likely be receiving correspondence about your divorce, such as legal documents, and if you share an address with your spouse, there’s a good chance they will see it, so it’s good to have a place where you can send and receive mail undetected.
- Inventory all of your and your spouse’s assets. Create a detailed inventory of all known assets and property and arrange to have it appraised. This information will be important in planning for the distribution of assets as well as in coming up with a financial plan.
- Hire a forensic accountant. If you believe your spouse may be hiding or concealing assets, hire a forensic accountant before they know you are looking in order to ensure that you have a complete understanding of your marital assets.
- Update your will. If your spouse is listed as a beneficiary in your current will, update it as soon as possible.
- Update your life insurance policy beneficiary. If your spouse is listed as a beneficiary on your life insurance policy, or on any trusts, be sure to update these as soon as possible, ideally before they learn of the divorce.
- Get copies of all relevant legal documents. These include your marriage certificate, any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, trusts, or other relevant legal documents.
Contact Greater Orlando Family Law
If you are considering a divorce, the first step is talking to an experienced Orlando divorce attorney. Contact Greater Orlando Family Law and schedule a consultation today.
