Important Steps to Take Before Filing for Divorce

Couples meet, fall in love, marry, and expect a “happily ever after.” Sadly, for some partners the dream dies and one or both consider dissolving the marriage. Various factors may contribute to the death of a marriage. Regardless of the reasons for the relationship breakdown, the divorce process remains complicated and extremely emotional. Consequently, several steps should be taken before filing for divorce.

Reasons Couples May Divorce

Michigan couples may consider and decide to divorce for numerous reasons. Some grounds may include:

Divorce paper being signed with two wedding bands on the sheet
  • Irreconcilable differences – Michigan is a no-fault state regarding divorce matters. As a result, a divorce may be granted when the couple no longer gets along.
  • Drug or alcohol abuse – If one, or both parties abuse drugs, a divorce may be granted. When children are involved, their safety is of great concern to the court.
  • Extramarital affairs – Cheating on your spouse is grounds for a divorce.
  • Physical abuse – Any physical violence of spouse or children should be reported to the police and medical treatment must be documented. Abuse is always grounds for divorce.
  • Financial irresponsibility – if one partner is dishonest with finances, or gambles, this may be grounds for divorce.
  • Emotional abuse – This could fall under irreconcilable differences although it may be more significant to the person being abused.

Necessary Steps

When a marriage is failing, one, or both parties may be under a great deal of emotional stress. In fact, this stress may affect your physical health. So, once you decide a divorce may be in your future use these steps as a guide:

  • Keep quiet. Do not tell anyone about your plans.
  • Contact a family law attorney that specializes in divorce. Your attorney will guide you through the process.
  • Collect vital documents. Your attorney will advise you which documents you will need. Common ones include: bank statements, retirement accounts, property information, credit card accounts, automobile information, child care costs if applicable, tax returns, marriage certificate, birth certificates for you and the children, passports, and others.
  • Secure any private personal property or assets. For example, any inheritance items will remain yours.
  • Go over child custody laws with your attorney.
  • Calculate child support. Your attorney may show you where to find this information.
  • Protect yourself and your children. If you plan to leave an abusive relationship, make sure you have a safe place to go. Otherwise, get a restraining order or a personal protection order. Once again, discuss this with your attorney.
  • Seek counseling if necessary. Taking care of your emotional health throughout the process, or before you file may be very helpful.
  • Change your will. Of course, discuss this matter with your attorney before making any changes.
  • Consider mediation. If both parties want the divorce, sometimes mediation is a great solution. Once again, seek the advice of an experienced family law attorney before entering any agreements.
  • Keep it civil. When possible, it remains important to keep calm during this emotional process.

Ending a marriage is a difficult process. Couples may experience an emotional roller coaster during this time. Anxiety, anger, resentment, loneliness, and other strong emotions could emerge during these months. So, it becomes important to secure sound legal advice guiding you during this period.