From infidelity to irreconcilable differences, there are many different reasons that people find themselves regretting the decision to marry a certain individual. Contrary to popular belief, not all divorce proceedings involve high emotions and vindictive behavior. Sometimes, both parties realize that it's just not working. No matter what the reason, Cummings Law Firm is prepared to act as your divorce lawyer. If you've only recently decided that it's not working out, this post will help you to become more familiar with the first steps of a divorce.

CONSIDER LEGAL SEPARATION

Divorce is a big decision that involves a lot of time and financial investment to get right. Divorce lawyers are and should be your last resort. If there's any doubt in your mind that you're making the right decision, you might want to consider legal separation first. This is more than just agreeing that one of you will crash at a friend's house until tempers calm down. Legal separation is “an arrangement by which a couple remain married but live apart, following a court order.” There are financial and religious reasons why couples might pursue this option instead of divorce, or as a way to delay a divorce for some reason.

EVALUATE YOUR NEED FOR A DIVORCE LAWYER

Once you've determined that counseling, mediation, and legal separation are not the right course of action, it's time to determine whether or not you need a divorce lawyer. It's true that a divorce lawyer isn't necessary in 100 percent of all marriage terminations. For couples that are divorcing under amicable conditions, or couples working with an extremely limited divorce budget, these “DIY” divorces may be an option. However, there is always risk to enter into a legal agreement without the advice of divorce lawyers. You never know what rights you might be signing away. If the divorce isn't amicable, if there are assets to be divided, or children for which custody must be determined, it's absolutely necessary that you seek the advice of qualified divorce lawyers.

DETERMINE YOUR GOALS AND BUDGET

We have other blog posts dedicated to all the things you should consider when hiring a divorce lawyer, but at the very start of the process, it's important to think about goals and budget. What do you want out of your divorce? What do you feel you're owed? What financial rulings are necessary to make sure your children are taken care of? Be sure to discuss and agree upon all of these things with your divorce lawyer.

FILE A PETITION FOR DIVORCE

Once you've hired a divorce lawyer and agreed upon the ultimate goals of your case, it's time to take the first official step toward dissolving your marriage. To do this, your divorce lawyer will file a petition with the court. Even if the divorce is amicable, one person will have to choose to be the person who files. This petition will state the particular grounds for divorce in accordance with the jurisdiction in which it's filed.

Are you ready to start the process of ending your marriage? Contact Waterbury's top rated divorce lawyers at Cummings Law Firm to discuss your case today.