If you are considering getting divorced, you may want to consider going to couple’s therapy first. Often, a good therapist will help you address the core issues that have led to your feelings. Also, a good therapist will provide you with the right tools for communication. These tools will be important whether you remain together or ultimately decide to separate or divorce. If you have children, and end up getting divorced, you will need these tools to communicate with your spouse during and after the divorce.
During this time while you are considering your future together, you should become aware of your surroundings. In other words, pay attention to the finances. Are you both balancing the family checkbook? Are you both paying the credit card debt? Are bank accounts under both of your names? Are both of your names on title to your home? Are both of your names identified with other assets, such as your car? If the answer to any of these questions is “No,” don’t panic. However, the financial aspect of your case will be a lot smoother if you are identified with your assets, and you have access to them.
Additionally, always consider the needs of your children. Your child is your first responsibility in this matter. Therefore, if there is abuse of any kind in the household, you should immediately seek out a safe place for yourself and your child, until a court, with the assistance of your attorney, can address the situation. Where abuse is not an issue, you should still keep your child’s health and happiness at the very top of your list. The best way to create a healthy environment for your child is to always keep in mind that although you may not love your former spouse, your child does. Respecting your child’s healthy relationship with your ex-spouse will greatly assist your child in adjusting to a very difficult and new situation.
So remember, work on your relationship and communication, become aware of your financial surroundings, and always consider the happiness and health of your children. For more information, please call the Law Offices of Steven B. Chroman at 661-414-7107 or at www.chromanlaw.com.
This article was originally published in Santa Clarita Magazine as part of our firm’s mission to make family law information more accessible to the Santa Clarita community. Read the full feature and others at santaclaritamagazine.com.