Blindsided: My Spouse Walked Out

My Spouse Walked OutSurprise. Shock. Anger. Hurt.

A very real fear about what your future holds.

You might feel all of these emotions when your spouse just gets up and leaves—and if you’re like most people in this situation, you’ll experience many more. When your spouse disappears, leaving you alone, the first thing you’ll need to do is call a Chapel Hill divorce lawyer. From there, you’ll need to ask yourself some tough questions and make a specific plan of action.

My Spouse Walked Out: Now What?
Whether or not you knew it was coming, you’re probably reeling. To get back on solid ground, call a Chapel Hill divorce lawyer; he or she will be able to provide you with a little insight and help you understand what might be in store. Even if your spouse comes back and you choose not to divorce, you’ll know what options you have if it happens again.

We’re Definitely Getting a Divorce.
Assuming that you’re not willing to reconcile after your spouse walks out, you’ll need to start tackling some tough issues, including:

  • carefully evaluating your financial situation. Do you have a job? Where will you get money if you don’t? (Your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer will be able to give you case-specific guidance on alimony if necessary.)
  • making plans for the kids. Will your soon-to-be ex stay in the area, and will your children have access to him or her? Who will take care of your kids when you work?
  • determining who gets what. Do you and your spouse jointly own your home? What about the cars, the furniture and your other possessions?

You don’t need to have all the answers right away, but you do need to be aware that these things will need to be dealt with eventually.

What Your Chapel Hill Divorce Lawyer Will Do
If you’re committed to getting a divorce, your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer will help you create a custody agreement that works for your whole family; help you draft a separation agreement; and advise you to keep things civil when you do talk to your ex. Your lawyer will also warn you about the dangers of sex after separation if there’s even a remote possibility that it could happen. Remember—your lawyer has your best interests in mind and is speaking from experience, and he or she is the only person you should listen to when it comes to legal advice during this tough time.

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