The thought of divorce can seem overwhelming, with many financial, emotional, and logistical issues that need addressing. Because the stakes are high, preparation is critical. That means crafting a preliminary plan to protect you from potential legal losses and emotional hardships.

Start preparing two to six months before you plan to separate:

Consult an Attorney

There are many reasons to have your first consultation with a divorce lawyer even before you separate from your spouse. Depending on your financial situation, you could benefit from rearranging assets or making different decisions regarding the home or other valuable property. In addition, hiring an attorney before you file for divorce will allow you to be prepared to prevent wrongful conduct from occurring.

Collect and Organize Your Paperwork

Make copies of all your essential documents, including notes, e-mails, and text messages, no matter how trivial you think it is.

Open a Separate Bank Account

Start gaining sole control of your finances and become accustomed to drafting a budget for monthly expenses.

List Property and Other Assets

Now’s the time to take a complete inventory of your assets — separating the marital property from separate property. By carefully delineating who owns what, you can better prepare for an equitable distribution.

Consider Your Family Debt

Think about paying down family debt before the divorce. Allocation of marital debt between divorcing spouses is one of the most challenging items to negotiate.

Plan For Your Leave

Think about where you will live before, during, and after your divorce. Think about when to start packing. Consider how your children will be affected and what will cause the least amount of disruption to their everyday schedules. If you have pets, plan for them as well.

Divorce is a significant decision, often taking a heavy toll on the entire family. Many couples that find themselves at odds can explore other options, such as couples counseling or even a period of separation, with the hope of reconciliation. Regardless, expert counsel, support, and guidance can make all the difference during marital trouble.

The divorce attorneys at The GC Law Firm are experienced litigators who are experts in New Jersey divorce law. We will guide you through each stage of the process and work to protect your interests. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.