Before you begin divorce proceedings, you should understand the legal process. Because of paperwork and court appearances, it can be a long and complicated process. There are six main steps involved in divorce.
Step 1: The Legal Process
Divorce requires the following seven phases:
- File for divorce. This is the formal process of ending your marriage.
- Paying the filing fee. The required forms must be filled out and submitted to obtain a divorce. Filing fees can be paid by check or cash
- Gathering evidence for divorce. Divorce evidence is often collected to establish that the spouse committed adultery or some other offense against them. It is possible to gather divorce evidence in several ways, including hiring a private investigator and speaking to friends and family members.
- Hiring an attorney. You should speak with a divorce attorney about your legal rights and responsibilities.
- Attending hearings and depositions. Both parties should attend depositions and hearings. If there is a dispute over child custody, both parents should be present at any hearing or deposition.
- Resolving debts and property matters. All your property, including debts and assets, such as houses and cars, must be divided. It depends on the state laws and your comfort level.
- Finalizing the divorce. Support from family, friends, and attorneys is crucial. A divorce is finalized from a financial perspective.
Step 2: The Emotional Process
When someone is going through a divorce, they are left with a heavy emotional burden. At various times, different partners may feel anger, sadness, guilt, and resentment. Divorce can also trigger depression and anxiety disorders.
Step 3: The Financial Process
Divorce is an arduous process. One of the most difficult aspects is dividing assets and liabilities. Speak with a financial advisor who has experience working with divorcing couples.
Step 4. The Social Process
Divorce can be emotional and difficult for both partners. Families, friends, and the community all participate in this process of social change.
Step 5. The Parenting Process
The first thing parents should do is be honest with their children and not try to hide anything. It will help them feel secure and less confused. The parents will also need to determine custody issues, such as visitation schedules and child support.
Step 6. Finalizing the Breakup and Moving On
This phase is about reassembling your life. Any type of breakup can be difficult. But when it comes to divorce, it can be one of the most disruptive things to happen to you. Just remember as you move on that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Conclusion
Divorce is an emotionally draining process. Knowing how to begin, what to do, and where to find the right attorney is difficult. To give you a general overview of the divorce process, we discussed the different steps in the divorce process and what is involved at each step.