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Tips For What To Do Before Filing For A Divorce

Do you know all of the ins and outs of the divorce process? Likely not, since many people do not file for divorce multiple times. That's why you should know the following things about divorce before you file. 

Meet With A Lawyer As Soon As Possible

It's important that you meet with a divorce lawyer as one of the first steps of getting a divorce. Your divorce lawyer is going to give you advice on what you should be doing, such as getting financial documents for accounts before your spouse makes it difficult to track the information down. 

In addition, you will gain an advantage by consulting with lawyers before your spouse. Once you have a consultation, there will be a conflict of interest for that same lawyer to meet with your spouse. The lawyer knows about your divorce case from your perspective, and it wouldn't be fair for them to represent your spouse afterward. Getting a lawyer as soon as possible means that you will have your pick of any lawyer to work with. 

Make Sure You File For Divorce First

If you and your spouse have mutually agreed to get a divorce, you are going to want to be the one that files for divorce first. While who files first does not matter if you settle the entire divorce in mediation, it will matter if the divorce goes to trial for any reason. Being the person to file for the divorce means that you are going to essentially be the plaintiff in the courtroom. You'll be able to present your case first, which gives you an advantage.

Filing first also allows you to have more control over setting hearing dates sooner rather than later if necessary. This may be important if you are trying to secure certain assets or get temporary custody of a child so that you know they are safe from your spouse. 

Get Your Finances In Order

There are some things that you should get done in advance so that your finances are in order. It will help to set up a bank account and credit card in your own name. Once you file for divorce and your spouse knows, this will give you a place where you can have your direct deposit redirected and start building up your own savings. You don't want to be put in a situation where your spouse can lock you out of accounts or make money unavailable to you. 

Contact a law firm like Melei Petsche Spencer to learn more.