At the start of the new year or after summer vacation, some people in Texas might make a decision to divorce. This is a common time for divorce attorneys to hear from people about this decision. There are several things people can do in preparation even if they have not yet made up their minds.
It is necessary to have financial records in order during the divorce, so people can gather bank statements, tax returns and other documents. People should avoid airing their personal issues on social media. If they do not wish to leave social media altogether, they should only post light updates unrelated to the divorce since any information disclosed there about issues including children and money might be used during the proceedings.
People can think about whether their divorce could be settled in mediation instead of going to litigation as well as what questions to ask attorneys. They should also think about how they will take care of themselves during this difficult time. Self-care could include talking to friends and family, talking to a therapist or starting to exercise.
Divorce may not be easy, but preparation can ease some of its difficulties. For example, people doing research will learn that Texas is a community property state. This means that the court considers most assets acquired since the marriage to be shared assets. Therefore, if only one person has paid into a retirement account or has another type of asset, the portion accumulated since the marriage will still be considered a shared asset unless there is a prenuptial agreement stating otherwise.