Marriages riddled with infidelity, mismatched priorities and disagreements over having children sometimes result in divorce. If you find yourself in a marriage marked by a history of arguments and disappointments, you might still be hoping for a resolution. However, your spouse may have already decided to move on without your knowledge.
If your spouse is acting unusual enough to raise suspicions of a divorce, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself.
Reasons people plan a divorce in secret
People have different motivations for preparing for a divorce in secret. Some aim to gain the upper hand during divorce proceedings. They could be gathering crucial evidence that can influence custody or alimony decisions, attempting to hide assets or waiting to achieve certain financial or personal goals.
Whatever the reason, being served with divorce papers unexpectedly can catch you off guard and leave you scrambling to respond. Watch out for these signs that may imply your spouse is planning a divorce:
- Refusing to share financial information (such as restricting your access to a joint bank account)
- Withdrawing or spending larger amounts of money than normal
- Showing unusual interest in family finances
- Securing important documents such as property deeds or tax returns
- Refusing to commit to long-term plans that involve finances such as new investments or big purchases such as a new house
Remember, every person thinks differently. Your spouse may not show these signs and still surprise you with divorce papers.
Importance of being prepared for divorce
Financial stability and child custody are among the biggest concerns during divorce. If you’re caught off guard, you may be unprepared to deal with the immediate and long-term consequences of a divorce.
One major financial challenge of divorce is housing. Whether you keep the marital home or move out, you must be ready to shoulder the utility bills and cost of upkeep on your own.
Another key concern is the division of property. Without full access to or knowledge of what you jointly own, securing an equitable division can be difficult.
To protect your interests, it’s crucial to be prepared. Being aware of your spouse’s intentions for divorce can also strengthen your position when it comes to negotiating vital matters, such as alimony and child custody.
Protecting yourself when divorce seems inevitable
If you suspect that your spouse has decided to end the marriage, practice caution before making any moves. Consulting an attorney can help you understand your rights and offer you legal advice that applies to your specific situation. They can inform you which documents to gather, how to safeguard your assets and represent you in court.
It’s a tough pill to swallow, but some marriages don’t last. By acting early, you can plan effectively for your future.
