4 Things to Do Before Filing for Divorce
Indiana is a no-fault divorce state, meaning there are no specific grounds required to file beyond meeting the jurisdictional requirements—you must have lived in your county for at least three months and in Indiana for at least six months.
Divorce is a life-changing decision, so before moving forward, it’s essential to be sure of your choice and prepare adequately. Taking these steps before filing can help ensure a smoother process and protect your interests.
1. Talk to a Marriage Counselor
Even if you believe your marriage is beyond repair, counseling can be beneficial. Therapy may provide:
A chance to reconcile and rebuild your relationship.
A way to gain clarity and peace of mind before making a final decision.
Valuable communication tools that could help with co-parenting if you have children.
If you need help finding a qualified marriage counselor, our firm can provide referrals. You can also find licensed therapists in your area using Psychology Today’s Therapist Directory. Additionally, affordable online therapy options like Our Relationship can help couples navigate issues.
2. Talk to an Attorney
Even if you’re not ready to hire a lawyer yet, consulting an attorney early is crucial. Indiana divorce laws can be complex, and missteps in the beginning stages could negatively impact your case. An experienced attorney can help you:
Understand your rights and obligations regarding property, custody, and support.
Avoid costly mistakes that could impact your financial future.
Develop a strategy for asset division and child custody.
3. Do Not Move Out of the Marital Residence (Unless Necessary)
Moving from one household to two is challenging, especially if children are involved. Before leaving, ensure you have a plan for financial responsibilities, including:
Who will pay the mortgage or rent?
How will household bills be divided?
Where will the children live during the process?
Once you move out, it may be difficult to return, and leaving could impact property division or custody arrangements. However, if domestic violence is an issue, prioritize your safety—leave immediately and take the necessary legal steps to protect yourself and your children.
4. Safeguard Your Assets
If you anticipate leaving the marital residence, ensure you take necessary personal items such as clothing, important documents, and sentimental belongings. If your divorce may be contentious, consider:
Removing your spouse from joint credit cards to prevent unauthorized spending.
Closing or freezing joint accounts to protect your finances.
Freezing your credit to prevent unauthorized loans or financial activity in your name.
Additional Resources for Divorce Preparation
If you're considering divorce, it's essential to understand the legal process and how to navigate it. The following resources can provide further guidance:
Indiana Divorce Process: A Step-by-Step Guide – Learn about the full divorce process in Indiana, from filing to finalization.
Breaking Down the Uncontested Divorce Process – Understand the advantages of an uncontested divorce and how to streamline your case.
How to Break the News of a Divorce to Your Kids – Guidance on handling difficult conversations with children during divorce.
Final Thoughts
Taking these four steps before filing for divorce can help you feel more prepared and secure as you navigate the process. If you're considering divorce, it’s important to be proactive and seek legal guidance early.
📞 Call Vining Legal at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation today: Click Here.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities before filing can make all the difference in achieving a fair and favorable outcome.