Starting Fresh in the New Year: How to Get a Divorce in 2023

The New Year brings with it new hope, new plans, and for those who are in an unhappy marriage—new possibilities. Is filing for divorce one of your New Year’s resolutions? We can help. While seeking a legal separation is never ideal, sometimes it’s necessary. Deciding to leave a toxic relationship is a hurdle most people can’t overcome, but an important one for your well-being. Still, a lot comes before filing that divorce petition, and it’s true what they say—the first step is always the hardest. If you’re getting ready to file for divorce in the New Year, here are a few things you can do to prepare.

Get Your Financial Ducks in a Row

The new year can be a great time to get a fresh start, but for many couples, it can also mark the beginning of a difficult journey—divorce. One of the first steps in preparing for a divorce is to get your financial ducks in a row. Start by gathering all of your financial information and organizing it.

This includes information on:

• Assets
• Income
• Debts
• Tax returns
• Banking statements
• Credit card statements,
• Retirement account statements, and
• Any other financial documents that you may have

If you need a clearer understanding of your finances, now is the time to get educated.

Create a budget so you can understand how much money is coming in and out of your household every month. Knowing your budget will help you understand what you need to maintain your lifestyle after the divorce and help you and your divorce attorney determine whether spousal support will be a condition of your settlement agreement. Determining what marital property you want to keep is also important. Make a list of these assets and consult a divorce lawyer or financial advisor to discuss protecting your assets throughout the divorce process. By getting organized financially before filing for divorce, you’ll set yourself up for success in the new year.

Start Building Your Support Network

If you’re getting divorced in the New Year, one of the best things you can do to prepare is to build a strong support network. Having one can provide invaluable advice and guidance that can help you navigate the complexities of divorce. Look for people with a history of helping others through difficult times —a close friend or relative, a mental health professional, a support group, or a compassionate divorce attorney. Be sure to choose people who are understanding and non-judgmental, as this can go a long way toward creating a safe and comfortable environment. Remember that you don’t have to do this alone. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help when you need it. Take the time to create your network now, and you’ll be thankful you did when things get tough.

Find the Right Lawyer

Starting the New Year off on the right foot may be difficult for those considering or going through a divorce. Taking the necessary steps to ensure you are adequately represented is critical. The most important step in this process is to find a qualified divorce lawyer. Find someone familiar with Florida’s laws who can represent you in court if needed. An excellent way to start your search is by asking family and friends for referrals or looking at online reviews. Ask potential lawyers about how long they have been practicing, how much experience they have with divorce cases, and whether they have sufficient staff to manage their cases. Once you’ve found a lawyer that fits your needs, get their contact information and fees in writing. Making sure you are represented by a qualified lawyer is one of the best ways to start the New Year off when preparing for divorce. With their knowledge and expertise, they can help guide you through the legal process and help protect your interests.

Take Care of Yourself

It’s important to take care of yourself as you prepare for divorce. Divorce is stressful and emotionally challenging, making it easy to get overwhelmed. Focusing on your physical and mental health is essential in helping you handle the complicated process. Make sure you get plenty of rest. Try to go to bed early, wake up refreshed and give yourself time to relax. Surrounding yourself with supportive family members and friends can provide comfort. Allow yourself to lean on them for emotional support and ask for help when needed. Remember, taking care of yourself is the most important thing during this process. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.

Ten Tips for a Smooth(ish) Divorce Process 

The New Year is a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. For many people, that means considering a divorce. Getting divorced can be difficult and emotional, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are ten tips on minimizing stress and heartache during your divorce.

1. Research the divorce process in your state. Make sure you understand the law, timelines, forms, and filing requirements. Consider hiring an experienced family law attorney to help guide you through the process. They’ll explain the legal grounds for divorce, your state’s residency requirements, and other vital information.
2. File for an uncontested divorce if possible. This will save you time and money, as it allows both parties to agree on the divorce terms without going to court.
3. Discuss child custody, visitation, and child support with your partner after discussing it with your lawyer but before filing for divorce. This can ensure that the children’s best interests are upheld during your divorce.
4. Choose a no-fault divorce if you don’t want to assign blame or argue over who is at fault in the relationship. No-fault divorces often make the process easier and faster than contested divorces.
5. Determine who will pay legal fees and any other costs associated with the divorce.
6. Consider mediation or marriage counseling before filing for divorce if there are disputes over financial matters or child custody. Mediation can help both parties reach an agreement without going to court.
7. Talk to a tax professional about how the divorce will affect your taxes and finances. They will be able to advise on how to protect your assets and handle taxes during the divorce process.
8. Determine your priorities. What outcomes are most important to you? Identifying this early on will help you and your divorce attorney work backward from there to get the best possible resolution.
9. Take time for yourself. Divorce can be emotionally draining, and it’s important to take time to rest, relax, and recharge.
10. Look forward to your future. There is life after divorce, and it can be just as fulfilling as before. Take time to think about what you want from life after the divorce and make plans to achieve those goals.

Finally, remember that no matter how hard things get, you will get through this. An amicable divorce is what we all hope for, but whatever the circumstances of your divorce, you can count on the Vasquez de Lara Law Group team to be there for you.

Looking to Get Divorced in the New Year? Work with Experienced Miami Divorce Lawyers 

There’s a lot of preparation that happens before signing your divorce papers. Our experienced Miami divorce attorneys can help you cross that finish line. Call today to discuss your divorce case.