These are some of the things you should think about before you file for divorce:

1.  95% of all divorce cases settle before trial.  Try mediation or collaborative divorce before taking an adversarial position.

2.  Prepare for divorce.  Do your homework.  Do as much research as you can. Knowledge is power. Knowledge will help you achieve your goals.

3.  Think about your goals for the ultimate outcome before you hire a divorce attorney.

4.  If you decide to represent yourself “pro se” consider hiring an attorney by the hour to consult with and review your settlement.

5.  Remember, only you can make the best decisions that will determine your future. Don’t jump to conclusions or rush into any decisions. You’ll have to live with the decisions you make, no one else will.

6.  Stay organized.

7.  Try to settle without going to court and having a prejudiced  judge make the decisions that will affect you the rest of your life. There is no justice in the court system.

8. Your divorce will not go on forever. Things will get better, and you will put it behind you. “When one door closes, another door opens.” Be excited about your future. “The best is yet to come!”