By Shaun Plymale, Esq. of Treasure Coast Legal

Going through a divorce is a highly emotional time for most people and many people don’t even know where to start. You should make sure you are starting out on the right foot so your divorce can go smoothly and you will get the best result possible.

1. Don’t post anything on Social Media. One of the most important things to remember is any information you put out on the internet can be used against you. If you are thinking about getting a divorce, don’t put your potential ex-spouse on blast on the internet and social media. Your posts could hurt you in the end. Keep your private life private. Even if you feel what you are putting online could never hurt you, it might. Play it safe and don’t put it online.

2. If you have kids, don’t put them in the middle. A divorce can be just as stressful and sad for your children as it is for you and your spouse. Remember that they didn’t cause this divorce and they didn’t ask for this either. As difficult as it may be, try to keep your kids out of your divorce as much as possible, they will thank you in the end.

3. Do your research. If you don’t handle the household finances, figure out what you have and how much you need to keep your current standard of living. You need to determine what you own both as a couple and what you brought into the marriage, what you owe jointly and separately, and you and your spouse’s income. Find your old tax returns and review your financial documents. It is important to know what you have to know what you are entitled to keep. Yes, you can ask for financial information from your spouse while in a divorce proceeding, but it is a lot easier to know what to ask for if you have a basic idea of what is going on.

4. Don’t incur any new debt or purchase anything new. It makes a divorce go much more smoothly when you don’t muddy the waters with new items we may have to divide or new debts to consider. Wait to buy your new boat or home until after the divorce is finalized.

5. Talk to an experienced attorney. You need know what to expect, most people know about divorce law and outcomes through second hand gossip. Don’t just listen to what your friend or neighbor thinks your rights and responsibilities in a divorce will be, meet with an attorney who can properly evaluate your situation and advise you. Meeting with an attorney who understands the law is important. Be wary of attorneys who tell you what you want to hear. No one wants to split half of their assets or lose some of their income, but depending on your situation it could be a possibility. You need to be aware that things may not go your way. No attorney can predict the future, and maybe you will get everything you want, but you should at least be aware of what you may lose.

If you are considering divorce, please call Treasure Coast Legal to set up a confidential consultation.

Treasure Coast Legal offers representation in a wide variety of practice areas and is the first place to call with your legal needs. Contact us today for more information by calling 772-283-2626 or visit us online at TreasureCoastLegal.com.