What to Do When Your Spouse Says They Want a Divorce

It is common for one spouse to unilaterally decide their marriage is over. When this happens, it can cause the other spouse significant distress. You might be tempted to beg them to stay, preemptively take your half of the joint assets or other emotional reactions. Unfortunately, knee-jerk responses can work against you.

Here are some constructive things you can do when your spouse says they’re filing for divorce:

• Get a legal consultation: Although you might choose to mediate your divorce later, consult a divorce attorney to find out more about your legal rights and obligations. This will prevent you from making mistakes which could work against you.
• Put your children first: If you have children, keep their best interests in mind. Avoid fighting in front of the children, and consider putting them in therapy so they can process the change in a healthy way.
• Copy documents and inventory possessions: Make sure that you have copies of important documents, such as birth certificates, deeds, mortgages, car title and registration, insurance policies, investment documents and more. Next, make an inventory of your major household possessions, like jewelry, vehicles, appliances, art and other valuables.
• Write down your family budget, expenses and debts: Make a list of your usual household budget, as well as regular expenses and debts you have incurred.
• Save a “nest egg”: You need access to money of your own, especially if your spouse stops paying bills. Save as much money as you can until temporary support orders can be filed.

Divorce can be painful and stressful, but these constructive actions will help protect you throughout the process. When it’s time to split assets and debts, work out a parenting plan and finalize details, you’ll benefit from this preparation.

To learn more from experienced divorce mediators in Long Island, call Solutions Divorce Mediation today.