How to Avoid Common Divorce Pitfalls

Let’s start with the hard truth – divorce is never easy. There’s no sugar-coating the fact that ending a marriage is one of the most challenging and emotionally draining experiences someone can go through. Why? Because divorce isn’t just about legally terminating a couple’s union; it’s about splitting up lives that were once woven together.

However grueling divorce can be, sometimes, it needs to be done. If you’re going through an unhappy or unhealthy marriage where reconciliation seems impossible, pursuing divorce may be the most reasonable path forward – for your well-being and that of your children. The challenge lies in navigating this difficult process as smoothly as circumstances allow.

That’s why avoiding common pitfalls is crucial. Because the reality is that missteps can turn an already painful experience into a nightmare. So, what are some of the biggest pitfalls to watch out for? Let’s explore a few key ones:

Not Being Fully Transparent With Your Divorce Attorney

Honesty is the best policy, especially when working with a divorce lawyer. To be able to help you, they need to know the truth about your situation – all assets, debts, issues with your spouse – everything that may affect your case. 

Remember, holding back or lying prevents them from doing their job effectively. It also undermines the entire process. So, as uncomfortable as that may feel, be an open book with your lawyer from the start. It will allow them to build a strong case with your best interests in mind.

Hiding Assets During Divorce Proceedings

On a related note, attempting to hide assets is a huge no-no that can jeopardize your case and potentially open you up to criminal charges. An ethical divorce attorney will advise full financial disclosure from the start. 

If the other party sniffs out dishonesty about your finances and properties, it can destroy your credibility. In worse cases, it may even sabotage negotiations. Ultimately, those hidden assets will likely be discovered anyway, so don’t think about hiding them. Just put everything out on the table through your lawyer.

Blindly Agreeing to a Settlement

In many divorces, emotions can run so high that people agree to lopsided settlements just to end an excruciating process. So, don’t let those emotions take the driver’s seat. Doing so may lead you to make rash decisions that could haunt you for years.

Read every document thoroughly with your attorney, and only consent to something you fully understand. Remember, a fair, informed settlement is supposed to benefit both parties in the long run.

Failing to Get It All in Writing

Verbal agreements are meaningless in divorce proceedings. So, don’t rely on a handshake deal or let things go undocumented under assumptions of goodwill. Insist on comprehensive, legally binding written agreements approved by both parties to eliminate ambiguity and risk.

Family Law Group is Here to Help!

Going through a divorce is hard enough. Our attorneys at Family Law Group have helped hundreds of clients sidestep these pitfalls to achieve favorable resolutions. We counsel clients on making wise choices from day one to keep their case low-conflict as much as possible. 

No matter your circumstances – high net worth divorce, military divorce, same-sex divorce, high conflict cases, child custody disputes, or more – our team is here to advocate for your interests. 

Our team can provide you with assistance in child support. Give Family Law Group a call at (703) 552-5072 today!

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