One of the first things people do after learning their spouse wants a divorce is to start panicking. Fears about post-divorce finances, an ugly legal dispute, child custody, and property division can race through your mind and make it all but impossible to realistically and logically assess your situation.
While it is normal to feel like this, you can do some things to regain some control of the situation and alleviate some of the anxiety you may be feeling.
- Take a deep breath and try to stay calm. A divorce doesn’t happen overnight, and there is going to be time to deal with every aspect of the split. When you stop to think before acting, you can avoid making some impulsive decisions that prove to be costly mistakes in the long run.
- Arm yourself with information about your finances. You will need to divide your assets, so it is important that you understand your assets. Familiarize yourself with monthly bills, childcare expenses and mortgage payments. Take note of all shared and individual bank accounts, credit cards and marital property.
- Learn about your rights. Nebraska family law statutes set guidelines for child custody and support, spousal support and property division. Understanding these guidelines can give you some idea of what you can expect and help you prepare for the road ahead.
- Focus on your kids. They are also going through the process of divorce, and they may be struggling just as much, if not more, than you are. Prioritize their well-being, talk to them about what is going on and make every effort to ensure they feel safe and loved.
These are just a few things to consider as you adjust to the announcement and assess your next steps.
Thankfully, you don’t have to figure out everything or navigate the legal system on your own. You can work with an experienced family law attorney who can provide critical support and guidance during this difficult time.
