Some marriages are built to last, while others fall apart after just a few years. In many cases, the latter occurs because one partner never wanted the marriage to begin.
If you end up in this situation, you may be wondering how to initiate a divorce. The process is long, expensive, and often fraught with chaos. However, there are specific steps you need to take to make your marriage ending as easy as possible.
Keep reading for a complete guide on how to initiate a divorce.
File a Divorce Application
When you file for divorce, you are basically starting the process of ending your marriage. You have several options available to you when you take the first step.
You can request a “no fault” divorce, in which case you aren’t required to show that either spouse was at fault in the decision to end the marriage. In order for a fault divorce to be granted, one partner must be proven to have caused the breakdown of the marriage.
It’s also important to consult with a divorce lawyer to discuss the best way forward. If kids are involved, it’s also important to consider their needs and how the divorce will affect them. In some cases, you can learn more about family mediation here, a valuable tool to help families during the divorce process.
Serve Your Spouse With Divorce Certificate
If you are on good terms with your spouse, you can simply hand over the papers and explain that you have filed for divorce. However, if your relationship is not good, you may need to rent a process servers to serve mail instead. It can be a little costlier, but may be worth it if you want to avoid dealing with your partner face to face.
Once your partner has been presented with the letters, they will have a specific amount of time to respond. If they do not respond, it is likely a divorce will be granted. However, the divorce process will be more complicated if they provide feedback.
Attend Final Session
In order to initiate a divorce, both spouses must attend a final hearing. During this hearing, the judge will make the final decision with regard to child custody, division of property, and other matters that are still undecided. This is generally the final step in the divorce proceedings, and it is vital to gather all your documents and evidence before this date.
Deal With The Emotional Impact Of Divorce
Although the divorce process can be complicated and tiring, there are ways to deal with the emotional impact. First, give yourself time to grieve the loss of your marriage. This is a significant life change, and it is important to allow yourself to feel the sorrow and anger that comes with it.
Second, reach out to your support system, whether it is friends, family, or a therapist. Lastly, take care of yourself. You need to exercise, eat well, and get enough sleep.
Use This Guide on How to Initiate a Divorce
If you are considering divorce, it is important to understand the various strategies you can use and how to initiate a divorce. You and your partner may have very different ideas about how to proceed, and it is very important to be prepared for this.
Considering all of your options and communicating openly with your partner is extremely important. With the right approach, you can get through this difficult period successfully.
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