The decision to seek a divorce can be one of the biggest decisions a person ever makes. The process of getting a divorce in Pennsylvania also reaches way beyond simply knowing that all parties involved want to get a divorce. There are many steps and specific planning tips to follow to ensure as successful and smooth a divorce as possible for all parties involved.
One tip to make the divorce process smooth is to gather all information about property and assets that have been acquired during the marriage and even before the marriage. This may include assessing and taking pictures of property and gathering tax returns. It is also recommended that couples change passwords and switch personal bank accounts over to their separate names, so as to see where they stand independently when it comes to credit and finances.
Going forward with a divorce also takes financial planning. Creating a budget with just individual accounts, funds and income in mind is wise. There will be expenses to consider, such as the cost of living apart. Each party may also want to plan ways to establish credit independent of the other partner.
The emotional side of any divorce can mean a period of adjustment and upheaval. The physical side regarding property and finances can also be a period of adjustment. Whether a Pennsylvania couple is in the beginning stages of a divorce or already in the midst of negotiating specific issues, planning ahead is the best way to move forward with the least amount of upheaval.
Source: online.wsj.com, “How to Plan for a Divorce“, Veronica Dagher, Sept. 6, 2014