Your Spouse Requests a Divorce – Do’s and Don’ts

Whether you saw it coming or it was a complete shock, if your spouse requests a divorce, it can be difficult to feel confident in your next steps. But, with the end of your marriage on the horizon, there are several important things you need to do and avoid doing to prepare for what is to come. Divorce is a process, and one that has lasting implications for your children and your finances. If you are not prepared, you could face the consequences for years to come.

We have put together a list of basic do’s and don’ts to consider when your spouse requests a divorce:

DO: Consider marriage counseling.

If you want to try to save your marriage, consider broaching the subject of counseling with your spouse. Many couples are able to resolve their differences through counseling, and seeing a counselor or therapist may be able to help keep your family together.

DO: Weigh your options for divorce.

Today, there are several options available to couples going through a divorce in Florida. For example, to save money, you can consider seeking an uncontested divorce rather than going through the traditional court proceedings. If you and your spouse are able to work together, mediation and collaborative law may be options as well.

DO: Collect important records and get a handle on your finances.

When going through a divorce – even an amicable one – it is important to have as much information as possible. If your spouse has requested a divorce, you should compile all of your records relating to your family’s finances. This includes information relating to you and your spouse’s incomes, spending habits, debts, bank accounts, retirement accounts, and other assets.

DO: Think about what matters to you.

When going through a divorce, the key issues that will need to be resolved involve:

• Your right to raise and spend time with your children
• Your right to keep property that you and your spouse shared during your marriage
• Your right to receive (or your obligation to pay) alimony and child support

For planning purposes, it is important to think about what matters to you the most. When your divorce is over, neither spouse will walk away with everything, and if you use mediation or collaborative law you will have the opportunity to develop creative solutions for meeting both spouses’ desires as much as possible. But, to get what you want, you’ll need to have your priorities in line.

DON’T: React negatively.

If your spouse requests a divorce, it is important to stay calm. The absolute last thing you want to do is to get violent or abusive toward your spouse or your children. Not only is it dangerous – and potentially criminal – but it will also greatly harm your standing in your divorce.

DON’T: Move out unless advised by your attorney.

Likewise, moving out can have harmful consequences for your divorce as well. While you may feel like you don’t have a choice, the consequences of moving out warrant careful consideration. You should speak with a qualified attorney before making any significant changes in your living situation. Note that the law provides special protections for victims of domestic violence.

Schedule a Divorce Consultation at McMichen, Cinami & Demps Today

At McMichen, Cinami & Demps, we have decades of experience helping Florida residents deal with divorce. If your spouse has requested a divorce, we can help you understand your options and start taking steps to prepare for the future. To speak with one of our Orlando divorce attorneys, please contact us today.

Contact Our Divorce Law Firm in Orlando, FL

Contact the experienced Orlando divorce lawyers at McMichen, Cinami & Demps today for legal assistance. Contact our Orlando, FL office at (407) 898-2161 to schedule a free consultation.

McMichen, Cinami & Demps – Orlando Office
1500 E Concord St
Orlando, FL 32803