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Tips for Your Separation

Sometimes, couples go into a separation with the hopes of reconciling. However, it’s important to be realistic with your separation and realize that the vast majority them end in a divorce. Therefore, even if you do have some hope left that you and your spouse will be able to repair your relationship, it is also important to protect your best interests.

Below are some steps you should take during your separation:

  • Investigate your financial situation: If you do not already have a good grasp on your financial situation, do so now. Know how much money you have in savings and retirement accounts, the kinds of recurring expenses you have, how much you and your spouse are earning and anything else that could impact your finances.
  • Be smart with credit: It’s a good idea to close joint credit card accounts once you execute a separation agreement as same will outline each party’s responsibility for credit card debts. It’s better to be safe than sorry here. You do not want to be on the hook (at least partially) for any debt your spouse racks up during the separation. Instead, open up credit cards in your own name. This will also help you build your own personal credit score.
  • Consult an attorney: You and your spouse should work to develop a separation agreement that outlines items such as liability for debts, how you’ll divide marital assets, how you’ll arrange for child support or maintenance, who will have custody of the kids and parental visitation schedules. You should both go into separation with a clear understanding of your responsibilities if you are to have any hope of reconciling.

For further guidance on divorce and separation, consult a skilled family law attorney with Jakubowski, Robertson, Maffei, Goldsmith & Tartaglia LLP.