Okay. No matter how you got here, one thing is clear to you. You want out. You want to end your marriage – with all the pain that will be entailed in doing so.
The important thing now then, is to take the appropriate steps, and to act with thought and planning rather than just via gut reaction. Whether you have decided to get divorce because of a spousal affair, abandonment, spousal abuse (verbal and/or physical) or because you just don’t love your spouse anymore, it is important to get legal advice throughout the process.
Below are five things which we advise that all of our clients who are considering getting a divorce not to do:
1) Don’t act on the advice of people close to you. Take the advice of a qualified professional because taking advice from others can cause damage to your legal position.
2) Don’t take any step against your spouse before you speak to an attorney. It is imperative that you get professional advice to help you direct your steps wisely and to protect your rights and to clarify the legal situation.
3) Don’t hesitate to contact the police if your fear domestic violence against you or against children. Three words – shame can kill.
4) Don’t allow joint account balances to increase unintentionally. Debt in joint accounts is shared by both spouses. Go to the bank and ensure that transactions require both spouses signatures.
5) Don’t incite the children against your spouse. Remember that the crisis is only between you and your spouse. Keep your kids away they are from the conflict and less damage will occur to them.
