5 Key Questions Before Divorcing

Before filing for divorce in Florida, take time to reflect, plan, and explore your options. Ask yourself if the marriage can be saved, consider the right timing, consult a family law attorney, and look into alternatives like mediation or collaborative divorce. Uncontested divorces are quicker and cheaper, but even contested ones don’t have to be full of conflict. Thoughtful preparation can lead to better outcomes for everyone—especially children.

Before You File

Deciding to divorce is never easy. It’s one of life’s biggest decisions—and in Florida, taking time to understand your options before filing can help protect your peace of mind, your finances, and your family relationships.

Here are five important things to consider before starting the process.

1. Can the Marriage Be Saved?

Before filing, ask yourself: Have I done everything I can to repair the relationship? Have we tried counseling?

Marriage counseling can help couples:

• Communicate better
• Decide if reconciliation is still possible
• Begin the separation process more peacefully, if divorce is the right path

Even if you’re leaning toward divorce, therapy can give both partners the emotional tools to move forward in a healthier way.

2. Consider Timing and Respect

Sometimes, the timing of a divorce filing matters. For example:

• Would waiting until after a child’s birthday, graduation, or holiday reduce stress?
• Is your spouse going through a health or career crisis?

When children are involved, planning for a smooth transition—both emotionally and logistically—can reduce confusion and help them adjust. A respectful approach, even in tough situations, benefits everyone.

3. Get Professional Legal Advice Early

Meeting with a family law attorney before filing gives you a clearer picture of what to expect. An attorney can help you:

• Understand your legal rights
• Prepare financial and parenting documents
• Explore options for peaceful resolution

Even if you’re unsure about moving forward, a legal consult can be a smart first step.

4. Explore Mediation and Collaborative Divorce

Not all divorces need to go to court. Two common alternatives include:

Mediation
A neutral third party helps the couple reach agreements on parenting, support, and property. Attorneys may be present, but the focus is on compromise.

Collaborative Divorce
Each spouse has their own collaborative-trained attorney. A neutral financial professional and a mental health facilitator are often part of the team. Everyone works together to create solutions that work for the whole family.

These alternatives are often:

• Less expensive
• Less stressful
• More private
• More flexible and family-focused

FAQs

Q1: Should I talk to a lawyer before I even file?
Yes. An attorney can help you understand your rights, guide you through the process, and prevent costly mistakes—before they happen.

Q2: What’s the difference between collaborative divorce and mediation?
Mediation uses a neutral third party to help resolve disputes. Collaborative divorce includes each spouse’s attorney and neutral professionals who work together as a team throughout the process.

Q3: Can I still try mediation if my divorce starts out contested?
Absolutely. Many contested divorces are settled through mediation before ever reaching trial. It’s often a cost-effective way to resolve conflict.

Zaneta Matthews is a trusted family law attorney in Orlando, Florida, who helps individuals and families approach divorce with clarity, compassion, and strategy. She is a member of Collaborative Divorce Central Florida and the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals, committed to helping clients reach peaceful, family-focused resolutions.

📞 Thinking about divorce? Call Zaneta Matthews at (407) 630-8959 to schedule a consultation.