No one looks forward to getting a divorce. Finding the best way through the process can be complicated and difficult. When you choose to work with Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell, you’ll be working with a California divorce attorney who will be here for you through the entire process. Read on to learn six tips that can help you through your divorce settlement meeting and then contact us at (909) 920-0908.

1. Communicate with us beforehand

Ideally, you’d never go to a divorce settlement meeting without first having a private meeting with Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell. We need to hear your concerns so we can protect you, validate you, or offer clarification, as the case may call for. We also need to make sure that everyone’s time is used effectively, which we can only do if we walk into the meeting with an understanding of what’s at stake.

2. Focus on being effective

This may seem obvious, but do you know what it means to be effective in this case? It means only saying things that will help the case move forward. It means working to advance the goals and interests you have. You may want to blame, accuse, or get something off your chest, but these kinds of behaviors can undo a lot of work. Anytime you consider speaking, stop and ask: Is this an effective way of achieving my goals?

3. Be respectful

Divorce is difficult for everyone. You and your soon-to-be former spouse are both dealing with huge changes to your life. Try to be aware and have compassion. This may mean slowing down and allowing them to grieve in the way they need to. At a very minimum, you can be quiet and respectful.

4. Take the time to listen

One of the most common problems in a divorce settlement meeting is everyone trying to talk at once. Yes, you likely have strong feelings about how the division of property should go but you’re not going to get your point across if everyone is talking over everyone.

5. Consider creative solutions

In divorce settlements, there doesn’t have to be a winner and a loser. Let Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell think outside of the box to try and come up with creative solutions. Of course, we are here to represent your needs and will always follow your lead. However, give us some room to consider alternative solutions you may not have thought of.

6. Try to keep the other side in mind

This can be the hardest tip to follow. However, it can make the process much easier. Remember that your goal isn’t to convince the other party that you deserve everything you want. Your job is to convince them that they want what you want. You must come together to make decisions together, or things can get very messy.

If you have questions about the process of divorce then you should call Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell at (909) 920-0908 right away. We offer a free case evaluation to let you know where you stand and what your options are.