Immediate Actions To Take If You Are Faced With An Unexpected Divorce
If you are suddenly faced with a divorce that you didn't see coming, this can be a shocking experience. While you will need time to work through a breakup emotionally, there are few logistical things you should be sure to get in order. Here are four immediate actions you should take if you find yourself in the middle of an unexpected divorce.
1. Get Your Assets in Line
If you don't have a clear picture of your finances, you might not set yourself up for settlement that you deserve down the line. Your divorce attorney may have recommendations for financial advisors you can work with you to bring clarity to your situation. If you are worried that your soon-to-be ex-spouse may be hiding assets, your divorce attorney can uncover items in discovery once you are on track with divorce proceedings.
2. Find Someone to Talk to
If you have been blindsided with divorce papers, you might run the gamut of emotions, and might be angry, sad, or frustrated. You might want to badmouth your spouse to your kids or family, but this can just raise tensions with family members that aren't necessarily in a place to pick sides. If you can find a counselor to talk with during this confusing time, you can keep your cool in front of your children and during divorce proceedings.
3. Don't Make Other Life-Changing Decisions
Another emotion that might come through during divorce is a more freeing feeling and the realization that you aren't tethered down. While you might feel the strong need to do something drastic such as move to a new city or make a big purchase, it is a good idea to wait until your divorce is finalized. These types of changes might not go over so well when it comes to custody decisions or financial profiles for divorce settlements.
4. Involving the Law in Domestic Disputes
While a surprise divorce might be shocking, if you might be in a more dire situation, you need to seek out help right away. If you feel in danger either for yourself or your children, discuss this immediately with an attorney so you can move forward with either restraining orders or temporary custody of children.
Protecting your emotions, family, and finances are all important factors if you find yourself in the middle of a divorce. While you may be dealing with a life-changing event that is entirely unexpected, it is important to act fast and keep your head on straight when it comes to logistical needs surrounding your divorce.
Share
