There are many steps that you will want to take to prepare yourself for a New Jersey divorce case. For instance, it may be a good idea to monitor your credit reports and close joint accounts if possible. If you have children, you should let them know what is happening and that the divorce is not their fault.
Pick your battles
In most cases, it is easier and less expensive to get through the divorce process when you and your spouse are civil toward each other. Ideally, you will avoid getting into disputes over issues that might not matter much as it relates to obtaining a reasonable settlement.
Safeguard money in a bank or brokerage account
If you know that your spouse wants a divorce, it is important that you take steps to prevent money from being taken out of a joint account without your permission. Your financial institution may agree to block a transaction unless both you and your spouse sign off on a withdrawal or transfer. Limiting access to joint accounts may also help to ensure that you get what you are entitled to in a final settlement.
Create an inventory of joint and separate property
Most joint assets will be allocated in an equitable fashion in a final divorce settlement. If an asset has the potential to generate income after a divorce is final, you may be entitled to a portion of that income.
If your marriage is coming to an end, it may be a good idea to hire a family law attorney to represent your interests. This may be worthwhile whether you plan to settle the divorce through mediation or litigation.