Five Things to Do if You’re Thinking About Getting a Divorce

 Posted on August 17, 2025 in Divorce

Deciding to end a marriage is not just one decision, but the accumulation of many small decisions that end in a filing. It can take months or even years of thought before you feel ready to take that step. If you are considering divorce in Illinois, taking certain actions early can make the process smoother and protect your future. 

Attorney Van A. Larson has nearly 40 years of legal experience and is committed to giving every client the personal attention they need. If you are unsure whether you are ready to take the next step, schedule a consultation and learn more about your options. Our Batavia, IL divorce attorney is here to help. 

Five Important Things to Do Before Filing for Divorce

Get a Clear Picture of Your Finances

One of the first steps in preparing for divorce is understanding your financial situation. Look at past records for bank accounts, retirement funds, credit card statements, tax returns, mortgage documents, and any other assets or debts you and your spouse have. Once you have an accurate idea of your finances, you can start thinking about what dividing them will look like. 

Under 750 ILCS 5/501, Illinois is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly, though not always equally. Having a complete, accurate record of your assets will help your attorney protect your interests and prevent arguments over what is marital versus separate property.

Think About Your Living Arrangements

If you and your spouse live together, consider whether you can safely and comfortably remain in the same home during the divorce. Some couples are able to do so until the process is complete, while others find it better to live separately.

If you have children, think about how any move might affect their school, activities, and emotional well-being. Judges in Illinois consider the child’s best interests when determining parenting time, so planning ahead can help you propose a stable arrangement.

Consider the Impact on Your Children

If you have children, it is important to think through how you will share parenting responsibilities. The court will allocate parental responsibilities and parenting time based on factors such as the child’s needs, the parents’ ability to cooperate, and the child’s adjustment to home and school.

Start documenting your involvement in your child’s daily life, including school drop-offs, extracurricular activities, and medical appointments. This record can be valuable in supporting your parenting plan.

Explore Dispute Resolution Options

Not every divorce has to be a courtroom battle. Mediation and collaborative law offer alternatives that allow you and your spouse to work together on a settlement. These methods can save time, reduce legal costs, and limit emotional stress.

Even if you cannot resolve every issue outside of court, narrowing the disputes through negotiation can make the litigation process faster and less costly. Attorney Larson has decades of experience guiding clients through both contested and uncontested divorces, helping them choose the path that fits their goals.

Consult with an Experienced Kane County, IL Family Lawyer 

Before making any final decisions, schedule a consultation with an attorney who can explain your rights and options. An experienced lawyer will help you avoid mistakes, such as moving out without securing important documents or agreeing to terms that harm your long-term financial stability.

Attorney Larson takes the time to understand your specific situation, answer your questions, and develop a strategy tailored to your needs. With nearly 40 years of legal experience, he knows the importance of having someone you can trust guiding you through this life-changing process.

If you are thinking about divorce, do not wait until problems escalate beyond your control. Taking the right steps now can protect your finances, your relationship with your children, and your peace of mind. Contact the Batavia, IL divorce attorney at Van A. Larson Law, P.C. by calling 630-879-9090 to schedule your free consultation. Attorney Larson will give you the personal attention you deserve as you make decisions for your future.