Deciding to file for divorce is a life-altering decision that can affect the rest of your life. As such, you do not want to irrationally or prematurely decide to file for divorce. You want to ensure that it is the right decision for you and that you are truly ready to end the marriage and keep it in the past. Here are three important questions to ask yourself before you file for divorce. 

Are You Sure You Are Ready to End the Marriage?

Prior to filing for divorce, ask yourself if you are sure that you are ready to end the marriage. Most married people have had a fight with their spouse that has left them thinking about ending the relationship. However, after sleeping on it or giving themselves time to cool off, they may rethink their decision and come to the conclusion that they were simply angry. Obviously, everyone has a line and has deal breakers. Before filing for divorce, ask yourself if you are really ready to end the marriage or if this is something you need to cool off and discuss with your partner. 

Why Do You Want to End the Marriage? 

Another important question to ask yourself before filing for divorce is why you want to end the marriage. In some cases, there is an event or series of events that may be hard or impossible to overcome, such as cheating. In other cases, one party may be bored or may feel like they are not having their needs met. Reflecting on why you want to end your marriage will help you to determine if your marriage is really over or whether there is a chance that your marriage can be saved by working with a marriage counselor or having a heart-to-hear with your partner. 

Do You Have a Plan in Place to Move Forward Alone? 

Lastly, be sure to ask yourself if you have a plan in place to move forward alone. Filing for divorce will change your life. You need to have some sort of plan in place, such as moving in with a family member or friend and being able to support yourself before filing. It can be much harder and more stressful to try to make these arrangements after filing, when your spouse may be trying to sway your decision or may be angry and resentful towards you. 

If you are positive that you are ready to file for divorce, a divorce attorney is able to help you. An attorney can help you to prepare the paperwork to get everything filed and start your new path. Contact a divorce attorney today to schedule a consultation and learn more about what you need to know about the divorce process.