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How to start divorce process.
Channing Smith
But now comes a bunch of red tape, including figuring out how to start the divorce process.
A divorce is like a marathon, not a sprint, says New York Citybased divorce attorneyRobert Wallack.
Whether youre currently single, happily married, or considering a split, knowledge is power.
To that end, weve laid how to start the divorce process, one step at a time.
Step 1: Decide if you actually want the divorce.
People arent as inclined to take a stab at stick it out and make it work nowadays.
Step 2: Determine how you want to get divorced.
(It also tends to be the least expensive way to go.)
Here’s what to expectincluding benefits, potential side effects, and what to do in social situations.
Litigation is the most traditional routeand the most expensive and time-consuming.
They settle at some point," says Newman.
“Its just a question of when and how much youre going to spend.
But it’s possible for you to go to court, maybe even a few times.
It can get complicated, because its hard to negotiate.
It depends on personality and the level of anger.
Theres also the online route, which she also doesnt recommend.
But I wouldnt recommend it.
Step 3: Choose representation.
Often people choose an attorney before they learn how to start the divorce process.
And as for representing yourself?
Unless you’re an attorney by trade, it’s not recommended.
Step 4: Wait.
Some people dont realize that divorce can be a really long process, he says.
They should keep this in mind; otherwise theyll find themselves getting very frustrated by the process.
Step 5: Brace your bank account.
Speaking of costs: It all depends on where you are and the specifics of your circumstances.
Initial retainer fees can range from a few thousand dollars to over $50,000 for larger case.
And Ive seen fees in some big money cases total more than a million dollars.
But thats not how it works, generally.
No need to become an amateur detective, Newman saysso preserve your energy.
Step 6: File divorce papers.
And then youre divorcedits that easy, quips Newman.
But, as Wollack points out, there are plenty of positives that can stem from parting ways.
This story was originally published in 2018 and has been updated.
