At Separate Ways, we believe divorce doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive, or combative. Our mission is to help you move through the process with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. This page is designed to guide you through the steps of getting divorced — from understanding your options and preparing your paperwork to finding the right legal and financial support when needed. Whether you’re looking for state-specific information, best practices, or ways to keep things amicable, you’ll find practical, judgment-free guidance here. Best of all, our service is completely free, because everyone deserves an easier, faster, and more affordable path to starting fresh.
Divorce is the legal end of a marriage — but it’s also the start of a new chapter in your life. While every situation is different, understanding the basics can help you make better decisions and avoid unnecessary conflict.
There are two main types of divorce: contested and uncontested.
In a contested divorce, spouses disagree on key issues like property division, custody, or support.
In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on most or all terms, which makes the process faster, less stressful, and far less expensive.
The more you can work together calmly, the easier this process becomes. Divorce doesn’t have to mean war. It can simply be a way for two people to move forward respectfully and independently.
Before you begin the legal process, it’s important to prepare — both practically and emotionally.
Here are a few best practices:
Gather key documents: Bank statements, tax returns, property deeds, loan information, and any shared financial records.
Stay organized: Create a digital or paper folder for all documents, notes, and communications.
Be mindful in communication: Keep things respectful and focused on solutions, especially if children are involved.
Prioritize safety: If you’re in a toxic or abusive situation, your safety comes first. Seek support from trusted friends, family, or professional resources before making any major moves.
Pause before reacting: Divorce brings up emotions. Taking time to think before responding can prevent unnecessary escalation.
Being intentional and calm during this stage can save months of stress and thousands of dollars later.
Before you begin the legal process, it’s important to prepare — both practically and emotionally.
Here are a few best practices:
Gather key documents: Bank statements, tax returns, property deeds, loan information, and any shared financial records.
Stay organized: Create a digital or paper folder for all documents, notes, and communications.
Be mindful in communication: Keep things respectful and focused on solutions, especially if children are involved.
Prioritize safety: If you’re in a toxic or abusive situation, your safety comes first. Seek support from trusted friends, family, or professional resources before making any major moves.
Pause before reacting: Divorce brings up emotions. Taking time to think before responding can prevent unnecessary escalation.
Being intentional and calm during this stage can save months of stress and thousands of dollars later.
Every state handles divorce differently. Residency requirements, waiting periods, filing fees, and even custody rules can vary.
Our state-by-state divorce guides break down the essential details for where you live, including:
How to file
Required forms
Average timelines
Costs and filing fees
Links to official court websites
These guides help you take the right next steps — calmly, confidently, and with accurate information.
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Many people assume the first step in divorce is hiring a lawyer. Sometimes that’s necessary — especially in complex or high-conflict cases. But for many couples, there are better (and cheaper) ways to move forward.
You might consider an attorney if:
You have major disagreements about property, custody, or support
There’s a significant power imbalance or history of abuse
You’ve received legal papers and don’t understand them
If you and your spouse can communicate respectfully, you might explore mediation, legal coaching, or DIY filings instead.
At Separate Ways, we start by learning about your situation through a simple, thoughtful questionnaire. Based on your needs, we’ll match you with vetted, ethical, and affordable professionals — from family law attorneys to mediators and financial planners — who align with your goals for a smooth and respectful divorce. Every attorney in our network is carefully screened for integrity and efficiency, ensuring they prioritize resolution over billable hours. Our goal is to help you find the right support while avoiding unnecessary confrontation, delays, or expense. Download our app and get started today.
If you’de prefer to find one yourself, you can find a repubitle attorney here.
Money and property are often the most complicated parts of divorce, but they don’t have to be. A thoughtful approach helps prevent disputes and ensures fairness.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
List all assets and debts. Include everything from savings and investments to credit cards and mortgages.
Consider tax impacts. Divorce can affect deductions, retirement accounts, and even home ownership.
Close joint accounts carefully. Avoid surprises by tracking balances and protecting your credit.
Be transparent. Full honesty now prevents legal trouble later.
Our free mobile app helps you organize and value your marital assets — so you have a clear picture before making any decisions.
If you have children, they’ll always connect you and your ex in some way. Focusing on their well-being is one of the best ways to keep your divorce amicable.
Key points to consider:
Create a parenting plan that prioritizes stability and routine.
Communicate openly about schedules, school, and activities.
Use co-parenting apps to minimize misunderstandings.
Remember: your children don’t need to witness conflict.
When both parents stay respectful, children adapt far better — and you build a foundation for cooperative co-parenting long after the divorce is final.
Even if emotions run high, you can still choose calm.
Some helpful practices include:
Take breaks before responding to upsetting messages.
Focus on outcomes, not arguments.
Avoid blaming language — it only fuels tension.
Lean on neutral third parties (mediators, counselors, coaches) when communication breaks down.
A peaceful divorce isn’t just better for your sanity — it’s faster, cheaper, and often leads to more durable agreements.
Divorce is an ending, but it’s also a beginning. Once your paperwork is finalized, there are practical and emotional steps to take:
Update your name, address, and financial accounts.
Review insurance policies and beneficiaries.
Take time for emotional recovery — counseling or support groups can help.
Set new goals for your next chapter.
Moving on doesn’t mean forgetting. It means rebuilding with peace and purpose.
At Separate Ways, we’re here to make your divorce journey simpler, smarter, and less stressful.
Our 100% free divorce conscierge service is app based and connects you to trusted resources, customized referrals, and exclusive discounts on:
Attorneys and mediators
Real estate and mortgage professionals
Financial planners and insurance specialists
Home services and post-divorce logistics
Download our free mobile app and get started on the next chapter in your journey…
Our goal is simple: to help you separate peacefully, save money, and move forward with clarity and confidence — one thoughtful step at a time.
Connect with a top-rated attorney through Separate Ways and enjoy a special discount on their services. Let us match you with the right legal expert and save on your divorce today!
We work with the best local divorce attorneys and can point you in the right direction for your situation. Choose your state and city to find a premier divorce attorney or use the search feature below.
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Puerto Rico
Washington DC
Our goal is to help you find the right attorney to ensure you have the best possible outcome for your situation.
