It's Over: 3 Things You Should Do To Prepare For Your Divorce

Posted on: 27 January 2017

Now that you've made the decision to file for divorce, it's time to start making plans. Taking the time to prepare in advance, will ensure that you're ready to move forward. Here are three steps you should take before you file for divorce.

Rent a Mail Box

If you're not ready to tell your spouse that you want out of the marriage, you're going to need a safe place for your mail. This is particularly true if you're going to be receiving mail from your attorney or you'll be trying to build your own credit. To ensure that your spouse doesn't intercept your mail, head down to a local mail center and rent a mail box. This will ensure that your mail remains safe and secure.

Start Your Own Savings Account

Whether your spouse is the sole breadwinner or you both have your own income, you're going to need to start your own savings account. This is particularly true if all your bank accounts are shared jointly by you and your spouse. Before you file for divorce, start your own savings account. This will allow you to save money so that you can pay for your attorney or pay to set up your own home.

It's important to note that you shouldn't empty your joint bank account, even if you're the sole breadwinner. If you live in a community property state, your spouse is entitled to half the money in your joint accounts. If you're afraid that your spouse will empty the joint account once they're served with divorce papers, withdraw half the funds and deposit them into your own account. Be sure to request a printout from the bank showing the balance of the account prior to your withdrawal.

Update Your Legal Documents

Now that you're planning a divorce, it's time to update your legal documents – especially if you're not on good terms with your spouse. The last thing you want is to have a hostile spouse in charge of your will or your medical treatment if something happens to you. Have your attorney update all your medical directives and assign someone else to be your representative for medical decisions. If you have a will, it's also a good idea to choose a new beneficiary.

Now that you've decided to file for divorce, take the time to prepare. If you have questions or concerns, be sure to talk to professionals like Baudler, Maus, Forman, Kritzer & Wagner, LLP.

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