A divorce is never easy, no matter how amicable both parties may be. The process can be long, drawn out, and expensive. Despite this, it’s worth remembering that filing for divorce is necessary and beneficial for both parties.

So, if you’re worried that your divorce might be a bumpy ride, you’re not alone. But preparing for the worst can help you get through it. Here are ten things you can expect during the divorce process:

1. You’ll have to deal with a lot of paperwork

Filing for divorce can be daunting, especially if you’ve never done it before. There will be a lot of paperwork to fill out and file, including your divorce petition. So, make sure you’re organized and have all the necessary documents ready to go when you file.

2. You’ll have to negotiate with your spouse

Divorce is all about negotiation. You’ll need to agree on everything from child custody to property division. This can be a complicated process, but it’s essential to try to be amicable. If you can’t agree, you may have to go to mediation or court because a judge will have to make the final decision.

3. You may have to sell your home

You’ll need to figure out what to do with your home during the proceedings. If both parties can’t agree, the court will order the house to be sold, and the proceeds will be split evenly. This means you may have to sell your home and move out.

4. You may have to go to court

If you and your spouse can’t agree on anything, the court will have to step in and decide for you. This is usually a last resort, but it’s always a possibility. So, if you want to avoid going to court, try to agree with your spouse on everything.

5. You may have to negotiate child custody

One of the most challenging aspects of a divorce is negotiating child custody. You’ll need to agree on who will have custody, how visitation will work, and what the child custody arrangement will be. Depending on the results of the proceedings, you might also have to pay for child support if you don’t get custody, but it could also be the other way around.

6. You’ll have to pay for a lawyer

Unless you’re representing yourself, you’ll need to hire a lawyer. This can be a costly endeavor, but it’s usually worth it to have someone on your side who knows the law. Moreover, if you’re getting full custody of your child, you will need a reliable child support attorney to ensure you’re getting what you’re owed.

7. You’ll have to deal with stress and anxiety

Going through a divorce is very stressful; it can also lead to anxiety and depression. You need to make sure you have a strong support system to help you get through this tough time and keep you on track. You might not want to burden your friends and family, but they can be a great resource during this difficult time.

8. You’ll have to make some significant life changes

Once you’re divorced, your life will change in many ways. You may have to move, change your financial situation, and get used to living independently. These changes can be challenging to adjust to, but it’s important to remember that they’re also an opportunity to start fresh.

9. You’ll have to deal with the emotions of your children

Your children will likely be going through many emotions during the divorce process. They may feel scared, confused, and angry. It’s important to talk to them about what’s happening and help them cope with these feelings. By doing so, you’ll help them get through this tough time and process their emotions.

10. You’ll have to accept that your marriage is ending

The end of a marriage is always sad, regardless of the circumstances. You’ll need to grieve the loss of your relationship and come to terms with the fact that it’s over. Although the end wasn’t the best thing to happen, you can still move forward and have a happy life. So, don’t dwell on the past and focus on the future.

While divorce is never easy, it’s important to remember that it can be positive for both parties involved. Take note that these ten things will probably not happen all at once, but you should prepare for the worst nonetheless. This will help you to avoid any surprises down the line. The divorce won’t be easy, but it will be worth it in the end.