California Divorce: Steps You Can Take Without a Lawyer
Although a divorce lawyer can offer guidance and assistance throughout the divorce process in California, there are many steps spouses can take on their own. While you might not be a legal expert, you can certainly take it upon yourself to handle various aspects of your ending marriage. These steps may be logistical, emotional, and financial in nature.
Discussing Your Divorce Alongside Your Spouse
A lawyer does not need to be present for you to have a discussion with your spouse about a potential divorce. Talking about divorce with your spouse may help you understand where each party stands on the subject. Initial discussions can lead to a more amicable split compared to simply filing for divorce without warning. During these initial discussions, you can talk about how you would like to handle things like child support, child custody, alimony, and property division. Any initial agreements may streamline the process of mediation and the drafting of divorce agreements in the future.
Moving Out or Getting to Safety
Another step you can take immediately is moving out of the family home or getting to safety. You do not need a lawyer to do this, although these legal professionals may offer advice on when to stay or leave the family home. Of course, if you are concerned about your safety, you can always call 9-1-1. It is possible to get a restraining order if you feel threatened by your spouse, perhaps after informing them that you want a divorce.
Handling Certain Financial Matters
It is also possible to handle a wide range of financial matters without direct assistance from a lawyer. This might include immediately removing your spouse from joint accounts and pursuing a state of financial independence. You might also remove your ex as a beneficiary of various estate planning tools, including wills, trusts, and life insurance policies. That being said, a lawyer can offer advice on how to approach these financial matters.
Prioritizing Mental Health
Spouses can also seek mental health treatment independently, and it makes sense to prioritize mental health as you move through a divorce. Although a lawyer can certainly approach your divorce in a considerate and encouraging manner, a mental health professional can help you develop various strategies to avoid needless stress. Spouses struggling with this stress should seek mental health assistance as soon as possible.
Where Can I Find a California Divorce Lawyer?
Being proactive is always helpful when you are going through a divorce. Taking these steps may provide a sense of progress and achievement, even as you struggle with feelings of doubt and uncertainty. However, there are certain steps that a California divorce attorney can certainly help with – especially those that involve complex legal issues. Booking a consultation with a divorce attorney is a positive first step, even if you are still not quite sure whether you want to move forward with a divorce. Book your consultation today with the RM Law Group to assess your options and get started with an effective action plan.
Jason Martinez is a co-founding partner of RM Law Group, LLP. His practice focuses exclusively on California Family Law and community property division, including litigation and settlement of complex and high-conflict divorce and child custody proceedings. Jason understands that divorce and family law issues have long-term effects on all family members, especially the children.
