How to Handle the Stages of Divorce


What can you expect?

After divorce is filed and the divorce petition is filed on the defendant spouse? There are certain stages to divorce proceedings. The basic phases of divorce are explained below.

Divorce discovery process - This is the phase that allows investigation into the facts regarding financial and others matters surrounding the divorce and each party's circumstances. In a divorce, discovery is commonly used to seek payroll records and tax returns to prove financial standing, determine child support, alimony, and property division.

A request for production seeks records to be provided and interrogatories seek written answers to questions. A request for admissions is similar to interrogatories, but requires only yes or no type answers, rather than open-ended responses to the questions posed. There are also requests for depositions, where oral responses to questions are recorded and turned into a transcript that may possibly be introduced as evidence at trial. A request for inspection may also be used when it's impractical to deliver items through a request for production.

Pretrial or status conference - The pretrial hearing is scheduled to help identify the issues in the case and attempt a divorce settlement without the need for going to trial. The court will often set deadlines for discovery and other matters at the status conference or case management conference. If a motion to dismiss was filed in response to the divorce petition, a ruling on dismissal may be made at this time. Financial statements may be required to be submitted at this time, but final decisions regarding child support or child custody typically will not be made at a pre trial hearing. It is possible that temporary alimony, child visitation, child custody, or child support orders may be discussed and ordered at this time. However, the judge will often give an indication of final orders he or she will rule on the issues in an attempt to encourage the parties to settle before the case goes to trial. Mediation or parenting classes may be ordered. There may be several status conference or pretrial meetings scheduled before the actual trial date is set. The goal is to keep the progress of the case moving along and encourage a settlement without the need to go to trial.

Divorce motions - Divorce motions may be filed at any stage of the divorce process. Commonly filed divorce motions are described below:

  • A restraining order or protective order may be filed with the divorce petition to prevent domestic violence, harassment, or dissipation of assets, such as draining a joint back account or running up unnecessary charges on a joint credit card.
  • A motion for modification of child support or child custody is also commonly filed after a divorce order for child support or child is entered. Requests for modifications of child support or alimony may be backed up with a financial affidavit.
  • A motion for contempt or show cause order is filed when a party fails to comply with a divorce order. For example, a contempt motion is often filed for overdue child support.
  • Name change motions are usually made when the divorce petition is filed. A restoration of the wife's maiden name is commonly ordered as part of the final divorce decree. However, a name change petition may also be filed after a final divorce decree has been issued.

There are many other types of motions that may be filed. Whatever type of motion you may require, US Legal Forms has the professionally drafted, affordable forms you need.

Final divorce hearing - In most cases, a settlement will be made without the need for a formal trial. If a trial is scheduled, you will likely want legal representation by an attorney. Once the determination is made regarding the issues involved, such as property division, child custody, child support, spousal support, etc., a final divorce decree will be prepared that incorporates the terms of the divorce and the spouses are no longer considered married under the eyes of the law. The terms of the divorce will remain enforceable in court if either party fails to comply.

Top Questions about How To Handle The Stages Of Divorce

  • What are the five stages of divorce?

    The five stages of divorce typically include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Each stage presents its own challenges, and understanding them can help you cope better. Knowing how to handle the stages of divorce allows you to process emotions and move toward resolution. Resources like US Legal Forms can provide valuable tools and guidance throughout this journey.

  • What is the biggest mistake during a divorce?

    One of the biggest mistakes people make during a divorce is failing to communicate effectively. This lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings and increased conflict. To avoid this, focus on being clear and honest about your feelings and needs. By learning how to handle the stages of divorce, you can navigate this challenging time more smoothly and ensure that both parties feel heard.

  • What is the 10-10-10 rule for divorce?

    The 10-10-10 rule encourages you to assess the long-term impact of decisions during a divorce. Ask yourself how you will feel about a choice in 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years. This perspective can help you manage emotions and make rational decisions as you learn how to handle the stages of divorce. Utilizing resources from platforms like uslegalforms can assist you in navigating these choices effectively.

  • Why is moving out the biggest mistake in a divorce?

    Moving out during a divorce can significantly impact your case, especially if you have children or shared assets. By leaving the marital home, you may unintentionally weaken your position in custody battles or property division. It's vital to think strategically about how to handle the stages of divorce, and staying put can sometimes be the better choice. Legal advice can provide clarity on the best steps to take.

  • Can my wife get half my social security in a divorce?

    In a divorce, social security benefits can be divided based on certain criteria. If you have been married for at least 10 years, your wife may be eligible to receive spousal benefits, which can be up to half of your social security amount. Understanding this aspect is crucial as you navigate how to handle the stages of divorce. Consider consulting with a legal expert to ensure you address all financial implications.

  • How to live in the same house while separated?

    To live in the same house while separated, establish clear boundaries and communication strategies. Set specific times for discussions about household responsibilities and personal space needs. It may prove beneficial to create a separation plan outlining shared responsibilities and personal areas. Learning how to handle the stages of divorce helps ensure this arrangement runs smoothly.

  • Can you live with someone else while going through a divorce?

    Yes, you can live with someone else during the divorce process, but it is crucial to understand the legal implications involved. You should be aware that this might affect your divorce proceedings or custody arrangements. Consulting with a legal professional can provide clarity on these decisions. Knowing how to handle the stages of divorce can guide you in making informed choices.

  • How to live together while going through a divorce?

    Living together during a divorce requires open communication and mutual respect. Establish routines that create a sense of normalcy for both individuals. Consider scheduling regular check-ins to discuss any concerns and maintain a cooperative atmosphere. This approach is key to understanding how to handle the stages of divorce effectively.

  • What is the hardest stage of divorce?

    Many people find the emotional stage of divorce to be the hardest. During this time, feelings of loss, anger, and uncertainty can surface. Acknowledging these feelings and seeking support can ease the transition. Understanding how to handle the stages of divorce helps you navigate this difficult period with greater resilience.

  • How to handle divorce when you still live together?

    Handling a divorce while living together can be challenging. It's important to establish clear communication and set boundaries to create a respectful environment. Developing a cohabitation agreement can help both parties feel more secure during this time. Remember, knowing how to handle the stages of divorce involves focusing on emotional support and practical arrangements.

Tips for Preparing How to Handle the Stages of Divorce

  1. Ensure that you’re totally prepared to start divorce process. Breakup can be a very complicated experience from an mental, legal, and financial perspective for all parties involved. Parting ways with your husband or wife might be a short-sight choice to start new chapter in your life. Before preparing How to Handle the Stages of Divorce and starting the divorce process, review all the alternative choices. Talk to a marriage counselor or try therapy. Take as much time as you need to make the most logical decisions.
  2. Put together How to Handle the Stages of Divorce and other essential documents to end your marital life. Whether you start divorce yourself or with an attorney’s assistance, getting all your forms organized and arranged will set you up for smooth sailing. Make sure that you don’t leave out important files. If you decide to a diy divorce, you can use US Legal Forms as professional virtual documents provider and locate all the necessary documents to start the process.
  3. Try to achieve a preliminary agreement with your partner. It gets even more crucial if children are concerned. Try and find common agreement on child custody and visitation. Plan ahead how you will break the news about divorce to your children in a less detrimental way as possible. Discuss with your partner the assets you’re willing to split, give up, and get. In this way, you get an opportunity to file for an uncontested marriage dissolution and make the entire process less painful for everyone involved.
  4. Inform yourself about the subtleties of filing for divorce in the state of your choice. Each state has its own authority regarding who, when, and how|and just how someone can go about getting divorce. You can choose a state to file for divorce, but you need to consider a list of nuances regarding the dissolution of marriage regulation in the respective state before you decide to proceed with drafting the How to Handle the Stages of Divorce. These include but are not limited to statutory and residency requirements, community property rules, and so on.