Do You Have a Clear Exit Strategy for Your Divorce?

 Posted on August 27, 2024 in Divorce

While the figures differ, about 42 to 50 percent of first marriages end in divorce, while about 70 percent of second and third marriages end in divorce. Some spouses never see a divorce coming, while others have known for months, if not years, that divorce is inevitable. If you are aware that your marriage may end in divorce, it is always a good idea to be as prepared and proactive as possible.

In particular, if your spouse earns the majority of the income while you stay home with the children, you need to know exactly what your marital financial situation is and what you are entitled to receive. It is also important to know whether you are entitled to spousal support and how a child custody decision is likely to go.

You can get the answers to all your questions by speaking to a Yorkville divorce attorney from The Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C.. We are fully committed to every client and will guide you through the divorce process to make it as simple and comfortable as possible.  

Why Do I Need an Exit Strategy for My Divorce?

If you have decided you want out of your marriage but expect your spouse to oppose the divorce or, at the very least, make it as miserable as possible, an exit strategy can anticipate and counter any barriers or sabotage. If you are in an abusive marriage or your spouse is very controlling, you need to be able to get out of the marriage on your own terms while remaining safe from harm.

If you have not been involved in your marital finances, it is crucial that you know exactly what marital assets you have and what you are entitled to. Since Illinois is an equitable division state rather than a community property state, the division of assets will be fair although not necessarily 50/50.  

What Should My Divorce Exit Strategy Include?

Your entire exit strategy should revolve around documenting the facts of your marriage and your daily life. If a controlling spouse or abuse has made you choose divorce, document any incidents. If you suspect infidelity, dissipation of marital assets, or a vice, like drugs, alcohol, or gambling, document this as well. Make sure you know the approximate worth of your home, vehicles, and other marital assets. Once you have documented these things, do the following:

• Create a go-bag that includes clothing, medications, phone and charger, toiletries, and money in case you need to leave the house suddenly.
• Put all your personal documents, including ID, passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, bank cards, and insurance cards in one place where your spouse cannot access them.
• Untangle your finances by making sure you have a credit card and bank account in your name only. If you work, have your paycheck directly deposited into your account.
• Make a budget and stick to it, putting back as much money as possible.
•  Rent a storage unit and a post office box if you anticipate leaving the marital home.
• Reach out to those you trust.
• Find somewhere safe to stay in case you need it quickly. 
• If you share pets with your spouse and you think he or she might hurt them out of revenge, arrange safe accommodations for them.
• Speak with your lawyer to determine whether there are other measures you can take to ensure you are safe and that the divorce decisions are fair.

Contact a Kendall County, IL Divorce Lawyer

If you are unsure whether you are prepared for an upcoming divorce, speak to a knowledgeable Oswego, IL divorce lawyer from The Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C. as soon as possible. The sooner you have an experienced divorce attorney on board, the better we are at protecting your interests and safeguarding your future. Our attorneys are highly skilled and compassionate. We understand that this is a difficult time for you, and we will work hard to answer all your questions while we put together a comprehensive plan for your divorce. Contact a divorce attorney from The Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C. at 630-409-8184 to schedule an appointment.