Take steps to protect yourself if your spouse wants a divorce

 Posted on August 31, 2020 in Divorce

Sometimes, one spouse wants a divorce but the other spouse does not. In such cases, it is common for the spouse who wishes to stay together to deny the idea that a divorce is really happening. While understandable, this can leave you vulnerable to an unfair outcome. You cannot ignore the situation and come out ahead.

Even when all you want is to remain with your partner, it is much wiser to accept that the divorce may proceed despite your protests. This form of acceptance, even when trying to save your marriage, allows you to take protective measures ensuring that you acquire a favorable settlement.

As experienced family law attorneys, we recommend following the steps below if your spouse demands a divorce:

• Get legal representation: Illinois divorce and child custody laws are complex. Without a legal advocate, you risk losing the assets and the property you may rightly deserve. If you share children, with your spouse, legal counsel is even more important to ensure that you remain close with your kids.
• Make lots of copies: Try to get your hands on as much financial documentation as is possible, especially if you are worried your spouse may try to hide assets. This information allows the court to make a fair and balanced judgment during the property division stage of divorce.
• Build up your finances: It is hard for most people to live on one income. Start working on your finances as early as possible by taking a new job or seeking education. It is also smart to ask your lawyer about the possibility of getting spousal maintenance if you are the lesser earning spouse.
• Find support: Divorcing is hard on a person’s emotions. It is common to feel betrayed, wounded, abandoned and many other negative emotions. Seek support from family and friends or consider joining a support group for those who are ending a marriage.

We know this is a difficult time in your life. Our attorneys urge you to learn as much as you can about divorcing in the Wheaton area. A great way to get started is by reading more of the information on our website.