What to do before you file for divorce

What to do Before You File for Divorce

May 12, 20253 min read

The Top 10 Divorce Do’s and Don’ts: What You Need to Know Before You File

Divorce can be overwhelming, confusing, and emotional—but it doesn’t have to be chaotic. Whether you’re just starting to think about divorce or already know it’s coming, understanding the key do’s and don’ts can save you time, money, and unnecessary heartache.

At The Do’s and Don’ts of Divorce, we’ve supported hundreds of individuals through every phase of separation and divorce. Here are the top 10 things we wish everyone knew before they file.


✅ 1. DO Get Informed Early

Before you even mention divorce to your spouse, take time to educate yourself on the legal, financial, and emotional implications. Learn about your rights, your state’s divorce laws, and what to expect.

💡 Tip: Our $47/month membership includes videos from a divorce coach, CDFA®, and life coach to help you get informed before making major decisions.


❌ 2. DON’T Post on Social Media

It might be tempting to vent or share your story—but anything you post can be used against you in negotiations or court.

🔒 Keep your private life off the timeline. Even “harmless” posts can create major legal issues.


✅ 3. DO Gather Financial Documents

Start organizing bank statements, tax returns, pay stubs, mortgage info, retirement accounts, and debts. The more prepared you are, the smoother the process.

📁 Your financial future depends on being proactive, not reactive.


❌ 4. DON’T Make Big Financial Moves

Avoid moving money, changing beneficiaries, or making large purchases without consulting a professional. These actions could backfire legally or financially.

🚫 Even well-intended actions can look suspicious during divorce.


✅ 5. DO Explore Mediation

If you and your spouse can communicate, mediation is often faster, cheaper, and less damaging than litigation.

🕊️ Our mediator-led videos walk you through what to expect in mediation—and how to prepare.


❌ 6. DON’T Involve the Kids in Conflict

Never use your children as messengers or emotional support. Protect their emotional well-being at all costs.

❤️ Kids don’t need to know the details—they need stability, reassurance, and love.


✅ 7. DO Build a Support Team

You don’t have to do this alone. In addition to legal support, surround yourself with experts—financial, emotional, and practical—who can guide you through.

👥 That’s why we created our expert-led membership: to give you trusted help without the high hourly cost.


❌ 8. DON’T Assume You’ll “Win”

Divorce isn’t about winning—it's about transitioning to a new chapter with as little damage as possible. Approaching it with a “win/lose” mindset often escalates conflict.

🎯 Focus on long-term peace, not short-term revenge.


✅ 9. DO Take Care of Your Mental Health

Divorce is one of the most stressful life events. Prioritize therapy, coaching, or group support to help you stay grounded.

🧠 Emotional clarity = better decisions.


❌ 10. DON’T Go It Alone

Divorce is a major life change—don’t try to navigate it without support. Lean into expert guidance so you can move forward with confidence.

💬 Our program gives you access to a community that gets it—and experts who know exactly how to help.


💬 Ready to Take Control of Your Divorce?

Join our Do’s and Don’ts of Divorce community today. For just $47/month, you get:

  • Unlimited access to expert-led video content

  • Weekly LIVE group coaching

  • A safe, supportive space to ask questions

  • Tools and templates to help you get organized

Your next chapter starts now—don’t do divorce alone.

👉 Join the Membership Now

Paige Harley is an accomplished mediator, parent coordinator, and coach specializing in divorce, post-divorce, and custody issues. Not only is she a child of divorce, but she has experienced the loss of her own marriage and understands (all too well) the complexities and emotions involved.

Paige's unique style and approach to divorce and co-parenting has given hope and practical solutions to hundreds of families.

Paige Harley

Paige Harley is an accomplished mediator, parent coordinator, and coach specializing in divorce, post-divorce, and custody issues. Not only is she a child of divorce, but she has experienced the loss of her own marriage and understands (all too well) the complexities and emotions involved. Paige's unique style and approach to divorce and co-parenting has given hope and practical solutions to hundreds of families.

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