The first five steps towards getting a divorce will be your guide. Especially when you do not know what to do in the first phase of your divorce. The process of getting a divorce is so lengthy that it might take up most of your time. To expedite your divorce proceedings, you can get divorce lawyers Malaysia by contacting thedivorcelawyermalaysia.com for divorce law consultation.
The secret to getting a fast divorce is to be prepared. This will stop you from making mistakes during the proceedings. You cannot afford the risk of failures like losing your custody rights. So to avoid making those mistakes, follow the first five steps towards getting a divorce.
Table of Contents
Live Separately
The first step is to think through your marriage and assess if you still have a chance to fix it. Seek couple counselling sessions if you must. However, if you are certain that your marriage has irretrievably broken down, then it is advisable to proceed with the divorce.
First, decide who will stay in your joint home. In most cases, both of you have the occupancy rights for your joint properties. However, living in the same house with your partner might cause trouble. When you live separately, both of you will have time for yourselves. You can use this time to think carefully. If you live separately for at least two years, this will serve as proof of an irretrievable marriage breakdown. This can be taken as a ground for divorce.
Gather Important Documents
After you have finalized your decision for divorce, the next thing for you to do is to gather all the important documents. Get ready your marriage certificate as you will need it to file for a divorce. If you have joint finances, gather as many documents as you can. Make sure that they can prove your assets and liabilities. Some of the documents that you need to gather are bank statements and statements of income. It will be better if you gather all documents that you think will benefit you.
This process is especially important if you have previously allowed your partner to handle all your finances. You may ask your potential divorce lawyers for advice. But during the first phase, those are some of the documents that you need to prepare.
Prioritize Your Children
Even when you and your partner have decided to live separately, you still have to prioritize your children. Discuss with your partner how you will work together towards co-parenting. Always put your kids first when it comes to making decisions. Ask your divorce lawyer for a temporary order for child custody or temporary spousal support.
Sometimes divorce can be problematic that may result in violence. So in the case of domestic violence, consult your family lawyer. You can apply for a restraining order to ensure your safety and your children’s safety.
Set Your Finances in Order
During your marriage, it is clear that there are joint expenses that you and your partner have shared. It can get complicated when it comes to splitting your finances and properties equally. What you need to do first is to get a whole picture of how much your finances and assets are. Make a list of all your assets, liabilities, and sources of income. Look through and gather all the financial statements. You will need those when you set out a full disclosure of all your assets and sources of finances. You and your partner hold the right to receive some of what you gained throughout your marriage.
Splitting your finances and properties should be the next step. Both parties should also check their retirement plan and life insurance policies. These are some of the things that couples tend to overlook often upon their separation. When these things are neglected over time, someone will be at risk of losing his/her insurance. During the divorce process, make sure that all financial responsibilities are clear for both parties.
Consult a Divorce Lawyer
When you have already decided to proceed with the divorce, you may now hire a divorce lawyer. Find a lawyer who is experienced and an expert in family law. Choose someone who has a good record of success. Or you can get professional legal advice first. When you get an appointment, you should know what to ask. Gather a detailed list of information that you need to ask your potential divorce lawyer. So, make sure that you hire a divorce lawyer who can guide you throughout the process of your divorce.
Going through divorce and separation will never be easy. You may encounter a lot of complications during the process. So, make sure you choose someone who knows exactly how to deal with and solve your problems. You might feel anxious and stressed during the proceeding. If you must, try to seek counselling and divorce coaching as well. They will help you handle your stress and anxiety so you can think straight even during such hard times.
Apart from looking after yourself, you should also not forget your children. Make sure that you can still provide for their needs. And you will be able to go through your divorce if you prepare and plan ahead. The steps above will help you with your planning and preparation.
In case you need professional legal advice, we at The Divorce Lawyer Malaysia can assist you. You can contact us at [email protected]. Or you can visit our website at https://www.thedivorcelawyermalaysia.com.
