Even if you feel confident about your decision, divorce in DC or Maryland can be a confusing and stressful time. It’s not unusual to feel overwhelmed, and feelings of sadness can ambush you when you least expect it. That’s all perfectly normal. Just keep in mind that — despite the emotional toll divorce takes — you can continue to move forward toward the life you want by focusing initially on these four steps:
Build a Team of Professionals
Don’t attempt to handle this complicated and emotional process alone. In addition to your family law attorney, many people find it helpful to work with a counselor or a therapist as well. Your individual circumstances may dictate that you hire other professionals as well. Just keep in mind that divorce proceedings require frank and honest communication, so make sure you select professional partners with whom you feel comfortable.
Set Up Private Communication
Don’t take it for granted that your spouse does not have your current usernames, passwords and pins. Proceed as if they do and make changes to your digital profile right away. Set up a new email account to ensure that any correspondence you send and receive is private. Consider getting a new mobile phone to protect your record of phone calls made and messages received. If you have a laptop, tablet and smartphone, check to see if you have those devices synchronized. If you do, any message you receive on one shows up on the other(s). Some people get their own post office box for regular mail.
Monitor Your Credit Report
It’s important for you to see which debts are owed jointly, which are your spouse’s, and which are solely your responsibility. Be sure to carefully monitor any credit card debts, bank loans, and home equity lines of credit. A credit monitoring service that notifies you when there is a change to your credit history can be helpful.
Copy Financial Documents
Make copies of your tax returns as well as year-end statements from your bank accounts, credit cards, mortgages, and any other accounts. Store them in a safety deposit box or with a trusted friend or family member.
Divorce is one of the most challenging of life’s experiences, but there is a way forward. At Brodsky Renehan Pearlstein & Bouquet, we are committed to the aggressive and diligent pursuit of divorce and family law litigation. Our singular focus on family law means our clients in the Maryland and Washington, DC area receive the most efficient representation and best opportunity to achieve their goals. For more information, call 301-869-1700.
