Divorce is one of the most significant events you will ever experience in your lifetime. Anxiety is high and made worse by not knowing what the consequences will be.
Here are four common obstacles that you will want to prepare for if you are to manage the divorce process as successfully as possible.
1. High stress levels
Stress is a factor in every divorce, but litigation can increase the level of anxiety. Divorce negotiations that take place outside the courtroom in more relaxed surroundings with no judge present can help lower the stress level considerably.
2. Property division issues
The more assets you have the more complicated the divorce will be. You can smooth the way by preparing well. Organize your assets and debts by making lists of everything you own and everything you owe. Provide one copy to your divorce attorney and keep one for yourself. In terms of property division, these lists will help you to decide what you want to keep and what you can live without.
3. Financial concerns
You will likely have some financial concerns as you go through your divorce. Develop a post-divorce budget so you know what to ask for in terms of child support and spousal support. When it comes to property division, remember to consider the tax consequences related to various assets.
4. Children and their future
Research shows that a high-conflict divorce can adversely affect the children of the marriage. A lengthy and contentious court process can lower their self-esteem, affect their relationships and cause problems with schoolwork. Many parents prefer a private process such as mediation that emphasizes open communication and respectful negotiation between the parties as they work to create their own divorce agreement. This approach is much easier on children than litigation and better for future family relationships.