November 18, 2019

5 Tips To Help You Prepare For Divorce

There are important steps you can follow to ensure that your divorce proceeds without a hitch as you work with a family law attorney.

Are you aware that $72 billion is spent on weddings every year in the US? In this period, over 2.3 million couples tie the knot, which is about 6,200 weddings every day.

Unfortunately, not all weddings stand the test of time. Within the first five years of the first marriage, at least one-fifth of these couples divorce. The divorce process can be expensive and stressful for all parties affected, more so the kids.

Are you thinking of getting a divorce? It may seem like the only important thing at the moment, you must factor in all the ramifications. Divorces tend to cause a lot of friction and animosity, which can last well beyond the process.

Ask yourself how you would like to relate with your ex-spouse after separating and what effect the process might have on the kids. Fortunately, there are some steps you can follow to ensure that the divorce proceeds without a hitch as you work with a family law attorney.

Be Sure It’s What You Want

As with life, marriages too have their ups and downs. As couples work hard to advance their careers and raise children, the spark that united them may fade slowly over time. Before you start searching for a family law attorney , ask yourself if it’s worth staying in the marriage and what else you could do to salvage it.

At times, not much can be done, and divorce is the best step for you to regain your peace of mind.

Gather All Relevant Documents, Make Copies

Before you begin your search for divorce lawyer services, gather all financial documents and start making copies. These include credit card statements, credit reports, bank statements, and any other relevant financial documentation.

Copies of financial records will ensure you get a fair divorce settlement. It is important to do this early on as your spouse may lock you out of accounts and change passwords to limit your access if they become aware of your plans.

Seek Legal Counsel

Once you are confident you have all the necessary documents, reach out to your family law attorney. Your divorce lawyer will first make sure that you have all the needed documents to start building a case for you.

Based on the documents you provide, your attorney will calculate a fair settlement for you and guide you through the property sharing process.

Talk To Your Spouse

Whether your divorce proceeds smoothly or not depends on how you let your partner know of your intentions. If the relationship has been strenuous, they may expect or even be thinking of it, too. However, if you are going to ask for a divorce from a spouse who thinks they’re happily married, you need to be considerate of how you break the news.

It’s best to do it when they are in a good mood and a time when you will have enough time to talk and explain. Do not bring up the topic at a time when they are going through something difficult or are unwell. If you have children, arrange for them to be at a friend's or relative's place.

It’s best to be civil and empathetic as you do it. This will determine whether they will choose to complicate the process or find amicable solutions.

Discuss The Divorce Settlement

Once your spouse is aware of your plans, proceed to initiate negotiations on the divorce settlement. Our family lawyer services in Houston, TX will help you use equal distribution divorce techniques to ensure the process is fair.

Is It Important To Have A Divorce Lawyer?

Other than the emotional toll that comes with divorce, the process can be long and involves a lot of steps. A family law attorney will handle the paperwork for you and give you invaluable advice every step of the way.

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Preparing for Mediation: What to Expect and How to Succeed

By Analytics Import • May 29, 2025

Mediation offers an alternative to traditional litigation, providing parties with a chance for resolution without the need for a courtroom battle. Understanding what to expect during mediation and preparing adequately is crucial for anyone seeking a successful outcome. This process involves a neutral third party who assists in negotiating a mutually agreeable solution between the parties involved. Whether you are working independently or through a divorce lawyer, getting ready for mediation requires a strategic approach and a clear understanding of your own goals and those of the opposing party. Understanding the Mediation Process with a Divorce Lawyer The mediation process often begins with each party providing an opening statement, outlining their position and goals. It is essential to prepare these statements ahead of time, focusing on facts and desired outcomes rather than emotions or confrontational language. A well-prepared statement can set the tone for a productive session and open the door for constructive dialogue. A divorce lawyer can assist in crafting a statement that is clear, persuasive, and aligned with your best interests. Remember that the goal of mediation is not to "win" but to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement that addresses the concerns of both parties. Exploring Possible Solutions During Mediation Throughout the mediation, the mediator plays a pivotal role in guiding discussions, identifying potential solutions, and helping manage emotions. According to the American Bar Association (ABA), a good mediator typically has a success rate of at least 75% in pretrial disputes. This impressive statistic underscores the importance of choosing a qualified mediator who can facilitate effective negotiations. Working with a divorce lawyer during this stage ensures your rights and priorities are properly represented, helping you navigate complex issues like parenting arrangements or property division with clarity. Why Flexibility Matters in Mediation Another key element to successful mediation is flexibility. Being open to alternative solutions and remaining adaptable to new ideas can lead to more efficient problem-solving. It's vital to enter mediation with a clear understanding of your bottom line, but also a willingness to make reasonable concessions. A skilled divorce lawyer can help you define those boundaries and adjust your approach as discussions unfold. Flexibility can often mean the difference between resolution and an impasse, paving a path toward a settlement that meets the needs of all parties involved. Preparing for Mediation with Expert Legal Guidance Preparing for mediation requires a combination of strategic planning, effective communication, and an open mind. By focusing on facts, seeking a skilled mediator, and remaining adaptable, you increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Mediation presents an opportunity to resolve disputes amicably, efficiently, and often with a high success rate, benefiting all parties by avoiding the stress and expense of litigation. Ready to approach mediation with confidence? Contact the Law Office of Arthur J. White III, P.C. for experienced legal guidance that helps you prepare, communicate effectively, and achieve the best possible resolution.