If your marriage has been struggling, you may have seen divorce on the horizon. Sometimes, spouses are blindsided by the divorce request. Whether you saw it coming or were blindsided, it is never easy to hear your spouse say, “I want a divorce.” When your spouse wants a divorce, you may not know what to do next. Hearing the words, “I want a divorce,” can lead to frustration and confusion. However, it is crucial to remember how you respond and the steps you take next matter. How you respond and the steps you take after your spouse asks for a divorce can affect your finances, mental health, your future, and your children. Below, we discuss the steps to take after your spouse asks for a divorce.
Remain Calm and Listen to Your Spouse
It can be challenging to respond calmly and rationally after your spouse asks for a divorce, but it is crucial that you remain calm and listen to your spouse. Understandably, you have many questions, but this is not the best time to ask all your questions. At this point, you should listen to your spouse’s side of the story and only ask questions that can help you determine what to do next. For example, find out if your spouse is committed to getting a divorce or might be willing to work on your marriage. Also, find out if your spouse has talked to an attorney and already filed the divorce papers. If your spouse has already spoken to an attorney and/or filed the divorce papers, you should consult an attorney as soon as possible.
Ask Your Spouse to Give You Some Time
Your spouse has had time to think about the divorce and what they want. Conversely, you might not have had time to think about the divorce and what you want. Request your spouse to give you some time before moving ahead with the process. You don’t want to make hasty decisions that you might regret later. Your spouse may push back angrily, but you deserve time too.
Seek Support
A support system is vital during this time. However, you should avoid running to social media. After your spouse asks for a divorce, seek support from trusted friends and family members. Seeking support from people on social media can end up hurting your divorce case. Even if you delete posts, people may have taken screenshots, which can be used against you. It is best to stay off social media when going through a divorce.
Learn About the Divorce Process
Use the time you have asked for to learn about the divorce process. The worst mistake you can make is going into the divorce process without knowing what the process entails. Being prepared can help you achieve a favorable outcome.
Talk to a Qualified Divorce Attorney
A skilled divorce attorney can help you understand the divorce process. They can help you understand your rights and options. For example, they can help you understand alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, which are methods of resolving disputes without going to court. An experienced divorce attorney can guide you throughout the divorce process.
Contact Us for Legal Help
To get legal help, contact our skilled New Jersey divorce lawyers at the Trabosh Law Firm.