Thinking About Filing for Divorce? Here Are 5 Things You Must Consider

Unfortunately, the number of divorces that happen every year both in this country and internationally are ever-increasing. A statistic that’s been rapidly rising throughout the years, it’s a hard decision that millions make. Divorce never used to be a common issue – only the minimal few went through with them. And yet now it’s almost a daily occurrence. 

 If you’re thinking about divorce and there is no alternative, then it’s important that you know what to expect. There are so many different types of divorce out there and everyone is different – so the process you go through will be unique to you. 

Regardless, there are several main considerations that you’ll want to keep in mind when going through it. To help guide you, here are 5 key things you should consider:

• The Motivation Behind the Divorce

Before filing for divorce, you should sit down and think about the motivation behind it. A divorce won’t resolve any issues that you have with your spouse – in fact, it will only promote conflict. So think long and hard about the reasons why you want to file for one.

If after thinking about it and talking it through with your partner, you realize that you can try and work it out, then that’s the first course of action you should take. You don’t want your family to split apart because of a rash decision after all. 

• What Happens to Your Assets? 

Another key consideration is what will happen to your assets. Typically, when a couple files for divorce they will have to think about what happens with the house (if they are joint owners), along with any other high ticket items. A process that’s definitely not enjoyable, it’s something that you’ll have to think about at the start. 

• The Effect on Your Children 

As well as the practical side of things, you’ll also want to think about the effect that the divorce will have on your children. Although mediation will undeniably help, in the long term, this decision can have a huge effect on them. So if there is no other option and divorce is the only way forward, you need to discuss what you’re thinking with your children (if they are old enough to understand it). 

However, when doing this, it’s a good idea to avoid telling them the reasons behind the divorce and to be as supportive as possible. 

• The Cost of a Divorce 

Filing for divorce, no matter where you’re located doesn’t come cheaply. Therefore it’s a significant factor that you’ll want to keep in mind before taking action. Several elements affect the cost, from the time it takes for the proceedings to go through to the professionals you hire and whether your spouse wants to settle inside or outside of the court.

This expense leads to many people looking for assistance. And while laws can vary depending on the state, there is a way that you can appeal to the court for reduced fees. To understand this process, it’s a good idea to seek the guidance of an experienced divorce attorney.

• Should You Change Your Name?

A factor that’s often forgotten about in the process is whether you will change your name afterwards. When you got married, you would have to have changed all of your legal documents, from your passport to your driving license. Therefore, the thought of having to change it back might seem very daunting. Not only this, but you may have to use a deed poll to successfully do it.

Final Thoughts

So, there you go – those are 5 things you must consider when you’re thinking about filing for divorce. At the end of the day, it’s yours and your partner’s decision as to whether you go through with it. However, no matter what the choice, it’s important that you factor in all elements surrounding it so that you’re in the best position possible.