Just like you, most individuals going through divorce have little to no experience with divorce proceedings.
While battling with the emotional toll of divorce, it is common to miss out on important information or make grave mistakes that can come back to bite you later.
But don’t worry.
Here’s a list of the most common mistakes that you can avoid:
1. Disregarding Quality Legal Advice
Friends and family members who have gone through a divorce may be able to offer you some advice. However, they are not lawyers, and the counsel they provide may not be the best fit for you!
Divorce is a complex process involving aspects such as the distribution of property and the future of your children.
As a result, you should only listen to legal counsel from those who have the necessary training and experience to provide you with sound legal advice.
2. Going Straight To Court
When going through a harsh or painful stage in a marriage, many individuals assume that the only way to settle a conflict is to take matters to court.
More peaceful and cost-effective alternatives are available, such as mediation and arbitration. If you want to maintain your co-parenting relationship while getting the best outcome for your family, you should also consider these options.
Only when your spouse refuses to cooperate and you have no other choice should you take the case to court.
3. Settling Way Too Quickly!
You may be tempted to sign the first deal you see, but once an agreement has been signed voluntarily, it is difficult, if not impossible, to take back.
Do not agree to a one-sided settlement deal, regardless of whether you are the spouse who brought the case or the spouse defending it.
After all, you will have to live with the consequences of the agreement down the road.
4. Not Checking The Paperwork Thoroughly
Often, the other party agrees to certain terms in person but fails to officially put them on paper.
If you proceed to sign the documents without checking, you could be agreeing to unfavorable terms or missing out on important requirements.
Make sure to double-check any papers you sign, particularly if it was prepared by the opposing counsel.
5. Paying Little To No Heed To Financial Planning
When going through a divorce, you must have a clear grasp of your financial situation and what your financial duties and expectations are.
It’s important to take account of your finances and begin the process of rebuilding your life.
Takeaway
Divorcing is a lengthy and complicated procedure. At the very least, you should seek legal counsel at the outset to ensure you don’t make any of these mistakes.
Reach out to Hecht Schondorf to get a solid understanding of your situation and proceed in the best way for your family and future.
Book your consultation today!