You know you want to pursue a divorce. The question that remains is how you move forward with this legal procedure. There is much to consider as you go through the process of ending your marriage. Here are some critical steps to take as you move forward.
3 key steps to start the process
Knowing where – and how – to start will help you move forward in a divorce with confidence, even if uncertainty lies ahead. As you take the first step, it will be critical to:
- Prepare: As we discuss on our FAQ page, preparing for a divorce requires compiling a significant amount of documents. You should collect copies of financial statements, identification documents and ownership papers, to name only a few. Preparation could also require reviewing North Carolina’s laws, obtaining counsel as well as preparing yourself emotionally and logistically for the divorce.
- Separate: You may know that before you can obtain a divorce, you must complete a separation period of at least one year. You must fully prepare yourself for this period and document it as well, in order to pursue a divorce.
- File: Then, to officially begin the process of a divorce, it will help to review the steps needed to file for divorce in North Carolina. Regardless of how you approach your divorce, you will still have to file the proper paperwork with the court.
This is by no means a comprehensive list. There are various steps you must take as you begin your divorce, with many of those falling under the umbrella of those listed above. The beginning of a divorce can feel overwhelming. Take time to understand and plan your approach, from beginning to end.