Divorce is a complicated, if not messy, process that requires expert information. Beginning with cautionary advice and enabling the reader to be sure divorce is the right answer, the founders of Divorce Central, an online service for the divorced and divorcing, provide all of the answers. This new edition moves right into the 21 strategic steps to planning for divorce and covers everything from finding the best ways to expedite the process, avoid unneeded expenses, handle custody and visitation, deal with emotions, and help children through the conflict. Making the decision Saving your marriage: when there's hope Planning for divorce Love in ruins Separation When there's no turning back Navigating the law The art of the deal How to find and retain an attorney The full-service attorney Handling your case pro se Hiring a lawyer for specific tasks Mediation, arbitration, and collaboration Taking your case to court When divorce turns vicious Paying the bill Closing the book on your case Same-sex divorce Divorce in Europe The economics of divorce Dividing it up Inheritance, wills, and other estate issues Spousal support Child support Managing your money solo Focus on the children Thinking about custody Breaking the news Working out time-sharing schedules Two parents, two homes Single parenting Redefining the family Facing your feelings. Beginning with cautionary advice and enabling the reader to be sure divorce is the right answer, the book moves right to the steps one should take before confronting one's spouse with the decision. The book then moves on to cover the following along with many other topics: - 21 strategic steps to planning for divorce. - The things one needs to do when the decision to divorce is made. - How to divorce in the least expensive and most expeditious way. - What to look for in and what to ask of one's legal representative. - How to avoid all-out warfare. - Breaking the news to one's children. - Custody and visitation. - Single parenting. - Dealing with emotions. This guide provides information on strategic planning for divorce; reliable ways to protect yourself financially; step-by-step advice on working out a settlement agreement; pitfalls to watch out for throughout separation and divorce; and advice for defusing hostile situations Walks through the legal, financial, and emotional issues that arise during a divorce, offering advice on settlement agreements, custody arrangements, mediation, child and spousal support, visitation, and blended families.
