Divorce is simple, right? Absolutely not, unfortunately.  There is a great deal to consider—financially and emotionally—before filing for a divorce. In some startling ways, divorce slams one chapter of your life closed. Nevertheless, obtaining a divorce decree could be the first step into the first chapter of the new life you’ve been dreaming of.

Natasha Burton’s article, “What I Wish I Knew Before I Got Divorced”* features solid considerations for individuals who are thinking about divorce or legal separation. Though Burton’s article was written for a female audience, the predominant message of the article applies to everyone: be prepared in more ways than one. Some noteworthy observations and considerations:

1. Recovery from divorce could take you a long time—which is absolutely normal.
2. Choose your legal counsel wisely.
3. Create a detailed plan for tackling your future living expenses.
4. Take a hard look at your joint finances and educate yourself.
5. Be ready for “unexpected” costs like health insurance.
6. Being vengeful toward your spouse will probably harm your family in the end and is public record.
7. Being divorced is not something to be ashamed of.
8. The holidays will be hard—really hard.
9. Your children will suffer from the divorce and may act out.
10. Finally, divorce can be completely worth it.

These considerations highlight just how far reaching the impact of a divorce can be and why it is so important to be fully prepared.  Take it from Burton and be prepared from the start by choosing your legal counsel wisely. Contact the certified Family Law Specialists (as certified by The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization) at Lonich Patton Erlich Policastri to learn about your legal options. Our attorneys have decades of experience handling complex family law matters.

Please remember that each individual situation is unique and results discussed in this post are not a guarantee of future results.  While this post may include legal issues, it is not legal advice.  Use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.

*Used with permission via email from Women’s Day author Natasha Burton.