Dealing with the dissolution of a marriage is challenging enough, but your situation can be made worse with missteps that could be completely avoidable.
Due to the mental and emotional strain of divorce, often people make mistakes that affect them both during and after the divorce.
Avoid These Mistakes During a Divorce
Here are of the more common mistakes that can be trip hazards.
If you intend to dissolve your marriage or are currently in the middle of a divorce, this information may help you make the necessary adjustments to avoid them for your particular situation.
Divorce Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Divorce Lawyer
It is imperative to carefully select a divorce lawyer who can provide the best legal representation in order to ensure your rights and interests are properly protected.
In choosing the right lawyer, consider their experience, especially with contested divorces or complex cases involving division of marital property or child custody.
A skilled divorce lawyer will help you navigate the process and communicate all your options. Therefore, ensure that the individual you choose demonstrates strong communication skills and is willing to answer questions or concerns efficiently.
Divorce Mistake #2: Being Less Than Honest
Being dishonest or withholding information concerning assets is one of the worst things you can do to potentially harm your divorce case.
Not only will you likely lose ground in your divorce case, but it may also directly impact the rulings on child custody and property division.
To avoid this mistake, be certain to share full, complete and accurate information to your lawyer and the court at all times, including but not limited to when giving testimony, filling out legal documents, and signing affidavits.
Divorce Mistake #3: Involving Children in the Conflict
In most cases, children gain from having a relationship with both parents, unless there is a safety issue. Children who are asked to choose sides or who are thrust into the middle of adult dynamics, as so-called bargaining chips in a divorce, suffer in more ways than one. Instead, attempt to shield children from the inner workings of the divorce and allow them to stay on good terms with both you and your ex-spouse. Never badmouth a child’s parent to them.
Divorce Mistake #4: Misunderstanding Temporary Orders
The employment of a Temporary Order is one way a Judge’s authority is utilized in the midst of a divorce for particular circumstances in which an issue or issues can be dealt with temporarily while a case is still pending.
Sometimes referred to as a Temporary Order, this can be the most suitable and required remedy for a divorcing spouse’s immediate needs or concerns, which cannot wait until the divorce process is over.
Any interim order that is issued must be understood in order for you to know what is required of you. Temporary orders are court orders and not following one can have serious repercussions. If at any point, you do not understand a court order, consult with your legal counsel for clarity to ensure you are able to fully comply.
Divorce Mistake #5: Signing Documents or Making Agreements Without Representation
Signing documents during a divorce can have serious and long-lasting implications. Avoid this common mistake and consult with an experienced lawyer before entering into any formal agreement.
Divorce proceedings often involve complicated financial arrangements, the division of marital assets, the determination of child timesharing, support amounts, alimony and more. A qualified family law attorney can provide counsel on matters such as these, assisting in crafting agreements that are fair to both parties in the eyes of the court. Don’t try to make agreements on your own.
Read all paperwork carefully and distinguish between the items that are being requested and the items that have been ordered. Signing a document without consulting an attorney may result in one party being taken advantage of or waiving rights he or she was entitled to receive. Make sure your attorney answers all of your questions before you sign.
Navigating Divorce
The road to divorce can be challenging as you go through the proverbial roller coaster of emotions and navigate all of the changes you now face.
At Apfelbaum Law, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest level of service using our extensive knowledge, expertise, and compassion for their unique situations. Our attorneys have decades of experience negotiating equitable divorce settlements and fighting vigorously on behalf of our client’s rights. If you are considering divorce, contact us today to speak with one of our experienced divorce lawyers and learn how we can help secure your future.
