Laurie Schmitt Family Law

W. Michigan family law specializing in Collaborative Divorce

616.608.4634

Common Sense Divorce Rules

By

The following are common sense rules for couples in the midst of a divorce. 

THE “DO’S”

  • Do start making a list of your debts (and their balances as of the filing date of the divorce).
  • Do start making a list of your retirement accounts (and their balances as of the filing date of the divorce).
  • Do maintain the household expenses – “status quo”.
  • Do start working with your spouse to discuss division of personal property.  After all, who wants to spend money on an attorney to help you divide your “stuff”.
  • Do start having discussions with your spouse about finances.
  • Do start having discussions with your spouse about the disposition of the marital home.  Do either of you want to keep the marital home after the divorce or do both of you agree to sell it. 
  • Do discuss with your spouse how and when you will tell the children that you intend to file for a divorce.
  • Do seek counseling for yourself or the children, if necessary.
  • Do remain or get active with your children and their education.
  • Do prioritize your children and their emotional needs during this difficult time.
  • Do start thinking about your budget post-divorce.
  • Do make your discussions with your spouse productive. 

THE DO NOT’S” 

Do’s and Don’ts Divorce

And yes, this list tends to be much longer!

  • Do not hide, give away, or destroy personal property.
  • Do not give away pets.
  • Do not remove money or empty out your retirement accounts.
  • Do not cancel health, auto, or life insurance policies (for your spouse or the children).
  • Do not cancel utilities associated with the marital home.
  • Do not cancel your spouse’s cell phone service.
  • Do not take out any new loans (such as personal loans, or home equity loans).
  • Do not cash out life insurance policies.
  • Do not sell real property (without an agreement between the parties).
  • Do not sell vehicles (without an agreement between the parties).
  • Do not run up credit cards.
  • Do not make large purchases such as a house or vehicle.
  • Do not change your children’s school (without an agreement between the parties).
  • Do not stalk or harass your spouse (this even means excessive texts, calls, and emails).
  • Do not discuss the divorce in front of your children.
  • Do not ask your children who they want to live with (as adults and judges make this decision, not children).
  • Do not alienate your children from your spouse.
  • Do not ask your children to take sides.
  • Do not discuss your divorce on social media.

AN ATTORNEY WHO UNDERSTANDS YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES

At Schmitt Law, PLLC, our clients benefit from years of experience. We treat every client as an individual, taking the time to understand your unique situation, so as to best advise you on the steps you should take. Whatever stage your life is at, you can trust Schmitt Law, PLLC to guide you through the legal process with expertise and compassion, because we understand that family comes first. Contact Schmitt Law, PLLC today by completing our online contact form, or calling us at (616) 608-4634 to schedule a consultation.