Puerto Rico

Divorce Preparation in Puerto Rico: Introduction

By Christian M. Frank Fas

This is the first article in a series titled “Divorce Preparation in Puerto Rico”. Throughout the next few days, we will explore a series of general guidelines and suggestions that will help anyone who is considering, or has decided, to divorce his or her spouse.

I’d like to take a moment to say that in no way am I promoting getting a divorce as the only means of fixing a faulty marriage. In no way should these suggestions be misconstrued into thinking that at the first sign of marital tribulations should a couple run out and divorce each other without seeking emotional or spiritual counsel.

But, if you are already past this point, and the only, or best, solution to deal with your marital problems is to seek a divorce, then you shouldn’t feel alone. Perhaps this decision is one of the hardest you’ve ever taken, maybe it will take years of rebuilding, both emotionally and economically to get back where you were before. But above all this, the decision needs to be well thought out, calmly and rationally.

The end of your marriage is by no means the end of your life.

Each day, millions of people all throughout the world take control of their lives, their careers, their children and their well-being just by making the decision to divorce their spouse.

Rebuilding your life shouldn’t be done hurriedly, and neither should your divorce. It may look like the end, but it will most likely be the beginning of a new chapter in your life, and will require direction, counseling, and careful planning.

The most important part of a divorce should be to protect what’s yours: you profession, your children, your financial assets and your health. With proper planning, you can protect all of them. The only thing you need is a plan, a map, a compass, a guide. The seemingly tumultuous beginnings of a divorce may turn soothingly calm if everything is done correctly from the start.

Anyone can get a divorce, but not everyone can get a good divorce. Getting a good divorce requires a series of steps, and that is exactly what this series is about. In the next few days, we’ll take an imaginary hypothetical trip through the beginnings of a divorce.

I cite as sources several websites, but primarily the Alabama Family Law Blog by Ben Sherman. I’ve taken his tips and guidelines, and given them a Puertorrican twist, with a strong dash of our local laws and legal proceedings.

Finally, I’d like to dedicate these articles to my mentor: Lcda. Edna I. Santiago Pérez, who through her teachings, coaching and guidance taught me that there’s nothing as important as family. Thank you!!

For a Spanish version of this article, please click here.

Full post as published by Puerto Rico Law Blog on September 17, 2008 (boomark / email).