Divorce For Dummies

Learn to:

• Evaluate your options in light of changes in the law
• Minimize legal, financial, and personal stress
• Get more of what you want from negotiations
• Utilize the latest statistics, Web sites, and resources

Now updated — your realistic, reassuring guide to surviving divorce

Getting divorced is almost never easy, but this practical, plain-English guide helps you get through the proceedings with a minimum of stress and expense. It shows you the latest changes in collaborative divorces, common law and same-sex marriages, and even custody law — and how to work out the terms so you can begin building a fulfilling postdivorce life.

• Understand the divorce process — review the key issues and decisions, get your finances in order, and file the petition
• Decide whether divorce is the best option — weigh the pros and cons of separation, consider marriage counseling, and learn about annulments
• Put things in motion — initiate the proceedings, break the news to your spouse and children, and deal with your emotions
• Make important and difficult decisions — divide your assets and debts, make a case for spousal support, and get the best custody arrangement for your children
• Protect yourself — plan for life after divorce, safeguard your money, and take action if things turn unfriendly or dangerous
• Avoid a divorce trial — negotiate your own divorce, seek help from an attorney, and work with a mediator
• Handle postdivorce challenges — meet your financial obligations, deal with visitation and child support problems, and get your personal life back on track

Open the book and find:

• What to do before you file for divorce
• Tips for finding a competent, affordable divorce attorney
• Help for managing your finances during and after divorce
• Advice on helping children cope
• Divorce blogs, Web sites, and support groups
• Ways to rebuild your life after divorce
• How to utilize mediation when negotiations get rough
• Alternatives to divorce