If you find yourself in a situation where you are contemplating divorce, there are several recommended steps you should take. The first of these is to consult an attorney who specifically practices in this area and devotes the majority of their practice toward divorce and family law matters. Contact the attorney to arrange for a consultation. You should not be put off by an attorney who charges an initial consultation fee. As with most things, you usually get what you pay for. Often times the consultation fee is a small initial investment in a major life changing event.
Next, if you are a parent, it is important to never involve the children in the marital discord. No child should be placed in the middle of divorcing parents or the issues one of the parents may have with the other.
If you are not already, become knowledgeable about your family‘s finances. Try to secure copies of relevant financial documentation including, but not limited to, prior tax returns, W-2 and 1099 statements and paystubs, bank account, investment and credit card information pertaining to both you and your spouse. While you and your attorney will be entitled to obtain and review this documentation during any litigation, there is a cost savings involved when you can provide as much information as possible to your attorney.