Once the divorce process is finalized, one or both parties may need to move out of the home they once shared. Moving is stressful under the best circumstances, and the added awkwardness of maneuvering around a recently divorced spouse can make the situation even more difficult to manage. There are a few things that you can do to make moving out after a divorce easier on yourself and your former partner. The fewer confrontations that you are involved in during your move, the better off you, your former spouse, and any children that you share will be.
Use a Checklist
Creating a checklist prior to your move makes it easier to keep track of what you need to pack and helps you confirm that you did actually pack what was needed. Even if your former spouse is remaining in the house, it may not be possible for you to return to get anything you overlooked. Your spouse may change the locks or get a security system for the home after you move, and if the house is his or hers according to the divorce settlement, your ex may not be inclined to grant you easy access into the house. Staying organized and using lists reduces the chances of leaving things behind or accidentally taking something that is not yours.
Ask for Help
During your post-divorce move, asking for help from friends, family members, and even coworkers is a good idea. The sooner you can get your property moved to your new home or placed in a storage facility, the better things for be for all parties involved. Having the assistance of several people cuts down the time needed to get things out of your home. Also, having people who are close to you there offering support after your marriage is over and you have to relocate can make a painful process easier to manage.
Get Mail Forwarded
Have all of your mail forwarded to your new address as soon as possible to avoid having important documents sent to your former home. If you are not sure of your new physical address consider investing in a post office box or signing up for a mail forwarding service. Once you have a new address to use, contact your bank, employer, creditors, and anyone else of importance to complete a change of address with them directly. For all other mail senders, a change of address can be completed online at the United States Postal Services website.
When in Doubt, Ask
If you are not completely sure about whether or not you have to move after your divorce or cannot afford to move, discuss your situation with a family law attorney. An attorney who is familiar with laws regarding property division can review your settlement agreement or help you fight for marital property if you have not yet finalized your divorce. The attorneys at Vayman & Teitelbaum are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients. Contact one of our Atlanta area offices today to schedule a consultation so that we can provide you with answers to any questions that you have.