Considering a Texas Divorce? Here’s What to Do First

 Posted on May 09, 2024 in Divorce

Breakups are hard. You might be heartbroken knowing that your happily ever after is not as close as you once thought. When a marriage breaks up, it can feel even more devastating. At one time, you and your spouse were convinced that you were meant to be, you planned a wedding, you got married in front of friends and loved ones, and you embarked on a life together. If you were both working, you may have accumulated some assets along the way. If you are considering divorce, there are some steps you should take before the process officially begins that can help your outcome. You might be feeling sad and disappointed, but the stakes are too high to lead with your heart instead of your brain. Speak with an experienced Dallas, TX divorce lawyer who can explain your options and advise you on how best to move forward.

Step 1: Gather Relevant Financial Documents

You can not figure out what sort of divorce settlement you want until you know what your marital estate contains. You need to know if your spouse has amassed any debt or obtained any assets during your marriage that might be divided among the two of you. It is a good idea to begin collecting bank account statements, tax documentation, titles to a car, deeds to property, paystubs, investment portfolios, and any other financial records and keeping these organized so you can access them if needed.

Step 2: Protect Your Privacy

When you are planning on a divorce, you might not want your spouse to hear or read your communication with legal counsel, financial advisors, or friends about this. Some ways to protect your privacy include:

• Make sure not to conduct any phone conversations about your divorce inside your home or in earshot of \your spouse. 
• Change your passwords, including on your phone, computer, email account, bank app, and anything else that you prefer to keep confidential.
• Get a PO box so your spouse does not have access to things you might request, like paperwork for a new bank account you are opening in your name, documents from your lawyer, and anything else related to the divorce. 

Step 3: Hire Reliable Legal Counsel

When you are about to begin divorce proceedings, one of the most important things you can do is make sure you have someone with a proven track record representing you. You need a lawyer who understands the law and is dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating on behalf of your best interests.

Speak with a Dallas, TX Family Law Attorney

If you are considering divorce, speak with a passionate Tarrant County, TX divorce lawyer who can guide you through the process. At Law Office of Michelle Poblenz, we pride ourselves on providing individualized care to our clients and fighting to get them the best outcomes. Call us at 469-845-3031 so we can get started.