Your situation is not as unique as you might think. Many married couples face the same dilemmas in their relationship which is why it is easier than you might think to fix. You just need the advice from an experienced Minneapolis family law attorney.
Assuming that you have already made the decision to get a divorce, there are several things you should do before moving forward.
1. Take your time and hire the right Minnesota divorce lawyer;
2. Find out if there are any legal repercussions for moving out of the marital home and/or taking children with you;
3. Find out if there are any legal repercussions for dating during your separation prior to the divorce being finalized;
4. Consider getting a P.O. Box as a mailing address, because you may be in transit for a few months;
5. Try to divide any assets and or debts with your spouse (however be sure to consult with your lawyer before making any final decisions);
6. Save as much money as you can. You may end up with some hefty legal bills and unexpected expenses;
7. Dissolve all joint bank accounts and credit card accounts;
8. Educate yourself as much as you can about the divorce process, including but not limited to; property distribution, debt distribution, spousal support, child support, child custody, visitation, division of assets, etc. The more knowledge you have the more successful your divorce will be;
9. Talk to your employer, friends, family, teachers and children about the divorce and what is or will be taking place;
10. Prepare yourself emotionally as well as financially. Consider counseling for you and/or your children to make the transition less traumatic;
11. Consider laying out a weekly or monthly budget;
12. Decide when, where, and why you will talk with your soon to ex-spouse; and
13. Put things in motion to begin changing your will. If you do not have one, it is a great time to get one.