September 14, 2022

Think You Might Want a Divorce? Here's How to Prepare

There are lots of reasons why you might consider a divorce. According to data from a survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, the most common reasons for divorce are incompatibility (43%), infidelity (28%), and financial issues (22%). If you are dealing with any of these three and you think divorce is the solution, you mustn't just jump into it. You should take some time to prepare. Here are some things you can do to prepare for divorce.

Find a Divorce Attorney

This is the first thing you must do to prepare for divorce. While it may be easier for you and your partner to deal with your divorce without litigation, that's not always possible. Hiring divorce attorneys doesn't mean your case will end up in court. Sometimes lawyers can advise you and make you see why going to court may not be a good idea. For instance, you may end up paying $10,000 in attorneys' fees just so you can win assets worth $5000. In that case, losing that asset would be cheaper than fighting for it. You can even negotiate for something else.

Pay Closer Attention to Your Money

One of the first things that divorce attorneys will tell you to do is to mind your finances if you are preparing for divorce. Most women tend to leave financial stuff to their husbands. As such, they generally keep themselves in the financial dark. If this is how your marriage was, it would be a good idea to start paying more attention to account numbers, tax returns, and bank statements. Very soon after filing for divorce, you will need to fill in a statement of your net worth. Therefore, you should ensure that every asset is accounted for, and that starts with knowing what your assets are.

Prepare a Post-Divorce Budget

It's very important to determine how you will survive financially once you are on your own. In some instances, incomes drop drastically after divorce. For instance, a spouse can leverage existing credit to buy out the interest in an asset. Revising your expenses will also influence how you negotiate the divorce settlement. Whatever the case, a budget is very important. If your spouse was paying all the bills, you definitely don't want to be left homeless. Therefore, you should know where you are going and how you will pay for your upkeep ahead of time.

Divorce can be quite stressful. This is why you need to ensure that you prepare ahead of time. Once the proceedings start, there will be so much to deal with that you may forget some important things. Get in touch with our divorce attorneys if you need help preparing for a divorce. We can also help with the divorce process. We would love to make things easier for you.

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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.