Whether you expected to get divorce papers or not, seeing that stack of legal documents can feel like a punch to the gut. Confusion, anger, fear and myriad other emotions are all normal.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, but now is the time to take a breath and focus on your next steps. What you do in the first few days after being served matters more than you might think and could affect the outcome of the whole process.
Don’t ignore the papers
First things first: Don’t show the divorce papers in a drawer and hope it’ll all go away. The clock starts ticking once you’re served, and missing the 30-day deadline to respond could mean the court moving forward without your input. If you ignore the legal papers, matters like child custody, support and property division will be decided without your input.
Read everything carefully
The paperwork may look overwhelming, but it’s full of important details. It outlines what your spouse is asking for — such as parenting time, asset division or spousal support. Mark anything you don’t understand and seek experienced legal guidance.
Start gathering relevant information
Pull together financial documents to make it easier to understand where you stand, and protect what matters to you. These include bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns, mortgage information and retirement accounts. You may also want to list any debts you share with your spouse. The more organized you are now, the easier it will be to navigate the road ahead.
Think before you react
It’s tempting to fire off an angry message to your spouse or post something snarky online. That can work against you. Everything you say or write could be used in court. Keep your head clear and your actions calm. Think about the long game.
Know your rights and options
Minnesota law does not favor one spouse over the other in divorce proceedings. However, this doesn’t mean you should fly blind. Early legal guidance can help you understand how everything works and protect your interests. It can make a big difference in securing a fair divorce settlement as you transition to a new chapter in your life.
