Deciding to get a divorce in Montana can be difficult, but the process itself can be even more challenging if you are not prepared. Taking the time to prepare is important as this can significantly impact the outcome of your divorce.
Take stock of your situation
Before you file for divorce, you should evaluate your financial situation as a first step toward planning for your post-divorce life. Part of this preparation could also include beginning to save to cover the costs of the divorce. You might also begin gathering documents such as:
- Bank statements
- Life insurance policies
- Property titles
- Pension and retirement account documents
Creating your divorce team
Your divorce team can be an invaluable asset as they guide you through the divorce process by offering you advice on your choices, state legislation and how each decision might impact your life in the long run.
Besides an attorney, your divorce team could also include a financial adviser, a certified public accountant, a certified divorce financial analyst, an insurance agent and a psychologist or therapist to assist with the emotional impact of the situation.
Choosing your divorce process
There are different divorce paths that you can choose, and each will have a different impact on your life. Choosing litigation means attempting to resolve divorce issues through the court, which can result in a longer and costlier divorce. Mediation or collaboration allows spouses to keep control of their divorce by seeking joint solutions, which might help the divorce be finalized quicker and with a lower cost than a litigated divorce as you and your spouse collaborate on seeking solutions.
The end of a marriage is difficult even when you feel that it is your only option and understand there is no other way to move forward. A divorce might cause you to feel grief as you accept that you lost your life plans with the person you had married. A way to deal with this is by finding a good support network of friends, family and mental health professionals who can listen to you. This, along with being prepared, understating what you are undertaking and creating a strong divorce team, can help you during your divorce journey.