From the Book: Divorce Amicably
This is a chapter summary from Chapter 6 of Divorce Amicably, a guide to navigating separation with dignity and cooperation.
Chapter 73 Author: Tracy Ann Moore-Grant
I have represented clients and practiced exclusively in the area of family law since 2002. In 2019, I made the decision to be a non-litigation family law attorney. I am a passionate believer that parties, not the court, are in the best position to come up with solutions to their family law issues. The court system is designed as an adversarial system to pit parties against one another, say negative things about one another, increase cost and animosity and leave parties and children broken...
Key Steps After Divorce
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Update your will and estate plan: Ensure your last will and testament, powers of attorney, and other estate documents reflect your new circumstances. Laws vary, but don’t assume your ex is automatically removed.
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Review and change beneficiaries: Update life insurance policies, investment accounts, and bank accounts unless the divorce requires otherwise.
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Document everything: Keep organized records of payments, parenting schedules, and communications. Good documentation can save you in court if disputes arise later.
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File change-of-address notices: Notify all institutions, including the IRS, to ensure you receive tax forms and official mail.
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Check financial accounts: Confirm your ex no longer has signature authority, joint cards, or access to your accounts. Call the card issuer if in doubt.
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Transfer utilities: Make sure utility bills, internet, and even trash service are in the correct person’s name.
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Audit subscriptions and expenses: Cancel or transfer gym memberships, streaming accounts, or auto-pay services to the right household.
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Reset passwords: Change logins for banking, email, and social media. Use strong, unique passwords unrelated to your old ones.
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Consult a tax professional: Divorce impacts deductions, filing status, and dependent claims. Professional guidance helps you avoid costly mistakes.
Protecting Your Future After Divorce
The weeks following a divorce can be overwhelming, but tackling this checklist step by step ensures you start the next chapter without loose ends. Mistakes will happen—mail may get misdirected or stray charges might appear. The best approach is cooperation and prompt resolution, keeping your financial and personal life secure.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Divorce is a transition, not just an ending. By handling the practical tasks—updating documents, securing accounts, and separating expenses—you build a solid foundation for your new life. Taking care of these details now protects you from future stress and allows you to focus on moving forward.
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