Your After Divorce Checklist
by: Cary Jacobson, Maryland Attorney
The process of divorce marks the end of one chapter in your life and the beginning of another.
After the legalities are settled, it’s essential to create a practical and emotional “After Divorce
Checklist” to help you regain control and rebuild your life. In this blog, we’ll outline essential
steps to consider as you navigate your life post-divorce.
- Take Care of Yourself Emotionally
Divorce can be emotionally taxing. It’s crucial to prioritize self-care. Consider therapy or
counseling to help you process your emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who can offer emotional support during
this challenging time. - Reassess Your Finances
Your financial situation may have changed significantly after divorce. Update your budget to
reflect your new income and expenses. Ensure that you understand your financial obligations,
including any child support or alimony payments. If necessary, consult with a financial advisor
to help you make informed decisions about investments and retirement planning. - Review and Update Estate Planning Documents
Revisit your estate planning documents to ensure they reflect your current circumstances. This
may include updating your will, beneficiaries on insurance policies, and power of attorney
documents. Remove your ex-spouse from any legal documents where they were previously
designated. - Seek Legal Closure
Consult with your attorney to ensure that all legal matters related to your divorce are settled.
This includes any outstanding financial issues, property division, and the closure of any joint
accounts. Legal closure will provide peace of mind and prevent potential future disputes. - Change Your Name
If you have chosen to restore the use of your maiden name, you will need to change it with all
of the appropriate government entities including the Social Security Administration, DMV, US
Department of State. - Rebuild Your Social Life
Reconnect with friends and family members you may have lost touch with during your
marriage. Join social groups or activities that interest you to meet new people and build a
support network. Rebuilding your social life can be instrumental in your emotional recovery. - Focus on Personal Growth
Use this period of change as an opportunity for personal growth. Set new goals, explore
hobbies or interests you’ve always wanted to pursue, and invest in self-improvement.
Rediscover your passions and create a fulfilling life for yourself. - Maintain Boundaries
Set healthy boundaries with your ex-spouse to ensure a smooth transition into your new lives.
Determine what level of contact is necessary for co-parenting and respect each other’s need
for space and independence. - Celebrate Milestones
Acknowledge your personal growth and milestones achieved since the divorce. Celebrate your
accomplishments, no matter how small, to boost your self-esteem and reinforce your
resilience.
Staying organized with our After Divorce Checklist can help you prevent future headaches and
work as a guide while you are taking care of these things sooner rather than later. If you know
someone who is going through a separation or divorce, have them contact Jacobson Family
Law today at 443-741-1147 or visit our website www.jacobsonfamilylaw.com.