How to Prepare an Exit Strategy for Your Divorce

When you are getting divorced, it’s essential to devise an exit strategy so you are prepared for your post-divorce life.

Key Takeaways:

• A divorce exit strategy helps you plan for the approaching end of your marriage so you can make informed decisions and minimize stress.
  
• Your exit strategy should address aspects like your financial wellbeing, your parenting time, and your mental and emotional health.
  
• Your strategy should also take into account choosing the right lawyer for your legal needs.

A divorce exit strategy can help you navigate the process in a way that protects your interests and sets you up for success in the future. Whether you’re thinking about divorce or are already in the middle of one, it’s crucial to plan ahead. 

At O’Connor Family Law, we are dedicated to advocating for the best interests of you and your family. We help you through every aspect of your divorce, both in and out of court, which is why we want to ensure you are equipped with preparations to make a clean break. 

This guide will help you understand what a divorce exit strategy is and how to create one that works for you. From gathering the right information to understanding your legal rights, an exit strategy is all about making smart, strategic decisions to move forward with confidence.

What is a Divorce Exit Strategy?

A divorce exit strategy is a plan that helps you approach the end of your marriage in a way that prioritizes your financial, emotional, and legal well-being. Just like any other major life event, preparing in advance will allow you to make informed decisions and minimize the stress of the process.

By having a divorce exit strategy, you can address the key areas of your divorce, such as custody arrangements, property division, and spousal support, before they become contentious issues. Having a clear strategy can also help you avoid pitfalls, and it ensures that you are well-prepared for what lies ahead.

Step 1: Understand Your Finances

A strong divorce exit strategy starts with understanding your financial situation, which is an area where many people overlook the importance of preparation. Here are some steps to consider:

• Gather financial documents: Collect tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and other documents that reflect your income and assets. This will give you a clear picture of what you’re working with and help your attorney understand the financial issues at play.
  
• Consider how assets will be divided: In Massachusetts, property division is based on the principle of equitable distribution, meaning that assets will be divided in a way that is fair but not necessarily equal. Think about the assets you want to protect and what you’re willing to negotiate.
  
• Evaluate spousal support: If alimony is likely to be a factor in your divorce, take time to understand the guidelines for spousal support in Massachusetts and how they may apply to your situation.

By gathering all of this information early on, you’ll be able to work with your attorney to make informed decisions about the financial aspects of your divorce.

Step 2: Plan for Custody and Parenting Time

For parents, custody and visitation are often the most emotionally charged issues in a divorce. Having a divorce exit strategy means that you should be prepared to address these issues ahead of time.

• Think about the best interests of your children: Massachusetts courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements. Take some time to think about what kind of custody arrangement would be in the best interest of your children and how you can be a proactive, involved parent post-divorce.
  
• Create a parenting plan: A clear and well-structured parenting plan can help ensure that both parents are on the same page when it comes to scheduling, decision-making, and co-parenting. The more detailed the plan, the less likely it is that future conflicts will arise.
  
• Consider how shared parenting will work: If you and your spouse are both committed to shared parenting, think about how you will divide responsibilities, including transportation, school events, and medical care. Having these logistics planned in advance can make the transition smoother for everyone involved.

By planning for these aspects of your divorce early, you can avoid unnecessary stress and protect your children’s well-being.

Step 3: Consider Mediation or Collaborative Divorce

Mediation and collaborative divorce are alternative dispute resolution methods that can be part of your divorce exit strategy. These options are designed to help you and your spouse resolve disagreements without going to trial.

• Mediation: In mediation, a neutral third-party mediator helps guide you and your spouse toward a mutually agreeable solution. This method is less adversarial than litigation, and it may allow you to preserve a sense of cooperation, especially when there are children involved.
  
• Collaborative divorce: In a collaborative divorce, each spouse has their own attorney, and both spouses work together with their attorneys to reach an agreement. This approach focuses on cooperation rather than conflict, and it can help you avoid the public nature of a court trial.

Choosing mediation or collaborative divorce can be a great option if you and your spouse are able to communicate and are willing to work together to reach an agreement. These methods can save time, money, and emotional energy during the divorce process.

Step 4: Protect Your Mental and Emotional Health

Divorce can be an emotionally draining process, and it’s important to prioritize your mental health throughout.

• Seek professional support: Consider speaking with a therapist or counselor to help you process the emotional aspects of your divorce. Therapy can help you manage stress, deal with negative emotions, and regain your sense of self-worth.
  
• Find a support system: Surround yourself with friends and family who can provide emotional support. Whether it’s venting to a trusted friend or seeking advice from someone who’s been through a similar experience, a solid support network can help you feel less isolated.
  
• Take care of your well-being: Divorce can take a toll on your physical health, too. Make sure you’re taking time to rest, eat well, and engage in activities that make you feel good. This can help you maintain the strength and resilience you need to navigate the process.

Your emotional health is just as important as your financial well-being, so be sure to take steps to care for yourself during this challenging time.

Step 5: Consult With an Experienced Divorce Lawyer

One of the most crucial steps in preparing your divorce exit strategy is consulting with an experienced divorce attorney. An attorney who specializes in family law in Massachusetts can guide you through the process, explain your legal rights, and ensure that your interests are protected.

• Choose the right lawyer: Look for an attorney who understands Massachusetts divorce law and has experience with cases similar to yours. They can offer legal advice and help you make informed decisions about your strategy.
  
• Discuss your goals: Be clear about your priorities and your goals for the divorce. Your attorney will help you understand your options, whether it’s negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial.
  
• Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the divorce process, your rights, or any concerns you have. Your lawyer will provide guidance and clarity throughout the process.

Having an experienced attorney by your side is key to ensuring that your divorce exit strategy works in your favor.

Contact O’Connor Family Law for Divorce Representation

At O’Connor Family Law, our team of divorce attorneys has over 65 years of combined experience helping clients in Massachusetts navigate the complexities of divorce with confidence. Whether you’re dealing with asset division, child custody, or spousal support, we will work with you to create a divorce exit strategy that meets your needs. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to us for a free case evaluation and let us help you secure a brighter future. We’ll advocate for your family’s best interests!