Filing for divorce and breaking up is never easy, but it can be even more difficult during the holidays; whether living separate from your significant other or not. It’s not uncommon to feel that you are betraying your spouse or children when moving forward with divorce proceedings during the holidays. Even so, taking the first steps as soon as possible with a compassionate Flagstaff area divorce lawyer can ultimately help to ease the stress associated with the process.
If you are considering filing for divorce or splitting up this holiday season, here are some tips on how to prepare yourself and your family from the experienced Flagstaff Arizona divorce attorneys at Antol & Sherman.
Have Your Financial Information In Order
Before you file, make sure that you have all of your financial information – including assets and liabilities – in order. This will not only ensure that you receive the appropriate settlement at the end of the process, but it will also help to protect your interests during temporary orders and any early negotiations.
It’s also important that you take steps to remain organized throughout the process. For example, it’s a good idea to keep copies of all important financial documents in one place so that you know exactly where they are when you need them. You should also consider keeping an open line of communication with your spouse, even if it isn’t particularly cordial or pleasant.
Some of the financial documents you may need include:
- Social Security Statements
- Wills & Trusts
- Debt Records
- Retirement Accounts
- Information on Pension Plans
- Statements from Investment Accounts
- Bank Statements
- Loan Information
- Income Tax Returns
- And more
If you’re not sure where to start with getting your financial information in order, your Flagstaff, Arizona divorce attorney will be able to help. Our attorneys regularly prepare clients for divorce proceedings and will work with you to make sure you get the necessary information.
Meet With A Divorce Lawyer
If you have been contemplating filing for divorce, the earlier you come in to speak with a divorce lawyer about your case, the better. Your divorce attorney will be happy to advise and guide you through these often-emotional proceedings. They will work with you and provide advice on what types of options may be available throughout your case.
When you first consult with a divorce lawyer, they will review your situation and ask you questions about all aspects of your marriage. They’ll discuss the division of assets, property, any children, alimony possibilities, and child support. Then, they may give you some advice on what to expect during mediation, should you decide to pursue it. After all this has been discussed, the attorney will then describe their practice philosophy and let you know what to expect during the process. These meetings can last anywhere from thirty minutes to two hours depending on how comprehensive of an interview the attorney conducts.
Because divorce lawyers are experts in navigating the often tricky world of couples who split in Flagstaff and across Arizona, it’s essential not to make too many decisions before consulting with one.
Learn About Your Divorce Options
We are living in a time when getting separated and divorce rates are high. With that comes the fact that many people will find themselves either getting divorced or having to help someone through the process of filing for divorce.
Preparing yourself for this type of change can be overwhelming, but you shouldn’t have to go through it alone. Understanding your options is key to making positive decisions for what is best for you and your family. An experienced Flagstaff, Arizona divorce attorney can help you do just that.
A permanent break-up is not always the only option, though it may very well be the best option for your specific situation. Some individuals prefer to explore other options for a variety of reasons.
These options can include:
- Mediation
Divorce mediation involves a neutral party dedicated to assisting the separating couple in reaching an agreement in the division of property, financial support, custody of children, and any other terms that must be negotiated. - Conscious Uncoupling
The concept of conscious uncoupling, while not legally binding, is a process that involves a couple going through the process of separation with cooperation and mutual respect. Made famous by Gwyneth Paltrow in 2014, conscious uncoupling may not be a substitute for divorce, but it can serve as a guideline for minimizing any emotional turmoil that may occur for partners and children. - Annulment
A civil annulment effectively terminates a marriage, but it is different than divorce since divorce acknowledges that a marriage once existed. In contrast, an annulment treats the marriage as if it never existed. Depending on your situation, you may or may not be able to seek spousal support following an annulment.
Brace Yourself Emotionally
Divorce is always an emotionally challenging process. Considering divorce during the holidays adds an additional layer of complexity. It’s important to brace yourself emotionally so you are prepared to navigate an already emotionally-charged season.
Here’s how to mentally prepare yourself for divorce during the holidays:
- Be kind to yourself. Prioritize self-care.
- Avoid confrontation. Remain cordial whenever possible.
- Don’t dwell on the past. Instead, focus on the future.
- Don’t focus too heavily on a need to win.
- Consider your partner’s emotions.
- Surround yourself with a support network.
- Ensure you’re working with an experienced professional who can guide you.
- Learn about what to expect during the divorce process so you are not caught off guard.
- If you have children, focus on them.
While it may not be possible to avoid all of the emotional triggers that come with divorce during the holidays, focusing on the above tips can go a long way towards helping you maintain as much peace and calm as possible during an otherwise difficult time.
Taking The Next Steps With Our Divorce Attorney
If you’re getting a divorce in Flagstaff, it’s critical that your lawyer guides you through the legal and financial ramifications so you can safeguard your interests. Divorce is more than simply the end of a relationship; it is the dissolution of an economic and legal partnership as well.
Taking the first step towards filing for divorce can be challenging enough. With that in mind, it’s important to remember that we’re here to help you through this process — and that we’ve handled many Arizona divorces before.
All you need to do is take the next step by scheduling a consultation with our experienced Arizona divorce attorneys with over 60 years of combined experience. We’ll be happy to discuss your case with you, and we look forward to welcoming you as a new client. We provide personalized care, respect, and professionalism while working to safeguard our clients’ rights and both financial and parental interests throughout the divorce process.
If you’re ready to discuss your divorce process or another family law issue, contact us online or call (928) 214-6339. Our skilled divorce lawyers always provide free initial consultations and have helped many people who haved filed..