Realizing that your marriage is about to end is a very difficult thing to accept. Nobody expects to get divorced when they get married, so it always comes as a surprise when a pledge two people make to share their lives doesn’t go all the way.

Divorce can be the right move to make, whether people fall out of love or there’s something unsafe about it for one party. But even when divorce is the right choice, it’s still an emotionally and financially challenging time, especially if you share children with the person you’re divorcing.

Let’s look at a few things you should be sure to do right away to help you get back on your feet.

Hire an Empathetic Lawyer

Leading family lawyers, like Tailor Law divorce lawyers, put empathy at the forefront of their practice for a few reasons. Divorces can be nasty, expensive, and long. Starting the proceedings with a positive tone and collaborative attitude helps establish goodwill from the beginning so they conclude faster and on better terms for all parties.

Just because a family lawyer emphasizes empathy doesn’t mean they can’t also fight hard to protect your rights over contested things like custody, spousal support, access to your children, and more. All they can do is begin with the most helpful, productive attitude and pivot tactics if circumstances beyond their control dictate the best course of action.

Such an approach is the best way to prioritize your children’s well-being while also upholding your own rights.

Sort Out Your Financial Paperwork

Anything that can quicken the divorce process is great, so you want as few barriers as possible. Collecting all your paperwork for things related to property or title deeds, financial assets like stocks, debts, and more can help move things along.

It also shows goodwill, that you’re trying to advance the proceedings without delay or obstruction.

Redraw Your Inner Circle

Getting divorced really changes your day-to-day life and routines, but your inner circle also changes. After all, the person who had been the bedrock of your inner life is no longer there, and common friends may gravitate more towards them than you. Some of this depends on why and how you’re splitting up, but some reshuffling of friends is almost inevitable.

Thankfully, you have other friends and family who are likely happy to step up and play a big role in your life. Call friends and reach out. A divorce is not a happy thing, but the friends who step in to help you rally may be a silver lining.

Don’t Wallow or Despair 

Divorce can be a sad, lonely time, and you’re allowed to feel sorry for yourself for a short period. But after that, it’s time to pick yourself back up!

That doesn’t mean you can be unhealthy in your low points. For example, don’t consume too much alcohol or damaging intoxicants. Eat more ice cream or some extra slices of pizza, and then get back on the horse.

Divorce is seldom easy, but there are definitely ways to make it easier or harder, and you want to stick to the former. Remember the above tips, and your divorce will be shorter and smoother so you can get back on your feet.