Today I present a posting by a guest writer, Jenny Wise, who tenders some sage advice about getting through a divorce. Included are some points that I tend to minimalize in favour of custody matters but may yet have lasting ramifications if neglected. So, here is . . . Quick Tips to Simplify the Divorce Process While the words ‘divorce’ and ‘easy’ aren’t often synonymous, it is possible to make it easier, if just a little. Whether you are currently in the midst of a divorce or getting things together to get the ball rolling, take a look at these tips to simplify the process and put this time in your life behind you as soon as possible. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
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Put Your Best Foot Forward
Even if the divorce is amicable, there is likely still a little bit of sadness, anger, or resentment. Something led to the divorce and it wasn’t the fun times you had staying up late to watch a movie and eat pizza on the couch. The end of a marriage can lead to a variety of complex emotions such as anger, grief, fear, and anxiety. It may catch you off guard, so be kind to yourself during this time. Any sort of big life change can take a toll on you, both mentally and physically, so take your time and take it easy. You may experience stress, difficulty sleeping, depression, or even a weakened immune system. Practice self-care by eating a healthy diet, exercising, and building a social support system. Talk with your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms that you just can’t get a handle on.
Prepare to Move
While it would be nice if the two of you could remain in the home you share together, it would be a tad awkward. To simplify things, add the word ‘quitclaim deed’ to your vocabulary. A quitclaim deed is the most common way of transferring property during a divorce. The spouse whose name is being removed from the house title signs the deed, giving up all claims, rights, and ownership of the home. The spouse who keeps the home pays “valuable considerations” to the spouse who files the quitclaim. Keep in mind that the deed does not transfer financial obligations such as a mortgage, so this will need to be handled separately.
If you end up being the one who has to move, whether by choice or via the court, don’t fret. Making new living arrangements might seem like a daunting task, but with a little prep, it doesn’t have to be difficult. Start by taking a look at the space you’ll be moving into. What is the crime rate in the area? Is it in a good school district for the kids? Is there plenty of storage? Are you close to family and friends? Does it meet your needs and those of your family? Don’t forget to plan the ‘how’ as well. Will you hire a mover or enlist the help of family and friends? It is a good idea to bring at least one person with you to retrieve your things to avoid an awkward or heated encounter with your ex-spouse, as well as have someone to lend social support.
Small, but Large Changes
If only a divorce were as simple as signing a piece of paper and going your separate ways. Unfortunately, it is a little more involved than that, so make sure you don’t forget to take care of the little things that might just slip your mind. Cancel or suspend joint accounts to avoid being responsible for your ex-spouse’s poor financial choices such as running up the credit card bill or having a bank overdraft, and open new ones in your name. Speaking of new, create a new estate plan post-divorce to prevent a situation in which your ex-spouse inherits your assets. Revoke your will and create a new one, appointing a new beneficiary. The beneficiary may be your children, a family member, or anyone of your choosing. Don’t forget other minor, but important changes such as updating your Social Security card, emptying your safe deposit box, and removing any valuable information from shared devices such as a computer or tablet.
Nothing can take away the emotions you are sure to feel during a divorce, but there are steps you can take to ease the process. Arm yourself with information and take it one day at a time. While it might not seem like it now, you can and will get through this.
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Friday, December 8, 2017
Quick Tips to Simplify the Divorce Process
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