How to Have a Healthy and Harmonious Divorce

The first step to having a healthy and harmonious divorce is to determine if you are ready for divorce.  Being ready for divorce involves being emotionally ready as well as preparedness.

When you are making the decision to divorce, it should be based on more than a one-off incident.  Getting divorced is a major life decision and it should be treated with caution and consideration. 

 

Below is a 5 Step Process You Can Follow to Have a Smooth Divorce

 

1. Consult a knowledgeable New York Divorce Attorney to determine what your rights are as well as your obligations.  A family law attorney can guide you on how to best handle divorcing when children or assets are involved.
2. Change your passwords:  it is essential to protect your privacy during this time and the best way to do this is to change your passwords to make sure your spouse doesn’t have access to your email, social media, individual bank or investment accounts, phone records, credit card bills, or voicemail.  It is also important to be cognizant of video cameras at home that are normally used for home security purposes but can also be used to eavesdrop on your conversations if you are not careful. If you don’t have the privacy you need at home and are unable to go to your office because of the pandemic; opt for sitting in your car to have that private conversation with your best friend or attorney.
3. Start gathering important documents:  gathering the necessary documents will make the whole divorce process go smoother and faster.  You should start gathering your tax returns, bank account and retirement statements, credit card statements, and insurance policies.  Additionally, if you have any joint real estate ventures, you should gather that information as well.
4. Be the better person:  handle matters in a dignified and graceful manner.  Divorce can instill anger and resentment, however; it is important to keep your composure and remember that how you act or react will also impact your children for years to come.  Stay calm and choose your words and actions carefully. 
5. Team up to be there for your children:  if you have children, your children will have questions and concerns about the divorce.  It is important to be there for your children as a team; both parents should be present in-person when breaking the news of divorce to children.  Once you have collectively had a conversation with your children, then work on creating a parenting plan that has the best interest of your children. 

 

Even if you have only started on this list, contact an attorney who has your and your family’s best interests in mind and to ensure that when the details are worked out, that the proper paperwork can be prepared and filed properly.  An attorney at Sabra Law Group, PLLC will help you get started right away. We can be reached at (646) 472-7971.