Divorce is a touchy topic, and it can often be a long, drawn-out process for all parties involved.
If you’re thinking of seeking a divorce or you’re already in the middle of a divorce battle, there are a few important things you should be aware of.
Read these eight divorce tips so you can avoid some common mistakes for a smoother process with less drama.
1. Not Knowing About Finances
In many cases, one spouse might not know about the other’s financial situation. This could mean they have stocks, bonds, or even property you don’t know about.
Make sure you get as much information as possible about the other person’s financial picture or else you could lose valuable assets in the divorce. Keep a copy of all financial statements, retirement account information, and tax returns. If your spouse withdraws or moves money without you knowing, you could be able to recoup some of it in the divorce.
2. Opting out of Mediation
The mediation process can save you money, time, and a few headaches. When you agree to mediation, it’s handled out of court and gives you a calmer, more reasonable platform to make a deal.
During mediation, you can come to an agreement on things like custody and splitting assets. The process uses a neutral third-party to help both sides come to a satisfactory agreement. It’s much easier than going to several court hearings and usually results in a reasonable result for both sides.
Make sure that the mediator you choose is well versed in dealing with divorces involving children or large assets. Their experience can mean the difference between an amicable resolution and a contentious one.
3. You’re Financially Unprepared
Sometimes, one party in the divorce has little to no income, such as a stay at home mother. In cases like this, you could be left out in the cold after a divorce is finalized.
Make sure you have all of your financial ducks in a row so you can be sure you’re capable of living on your own. The last thing you want is to end up homeless without any income. Start saving and planning now to avoid financial headaches and heartache later.
4. You Chose a Ruthless Lawyer
Of course, you want your lawyer to look out for your best interest during your divorce. But that doesn’t mean they need to be extra combative or come up with ways to punish your spouse.
Keep in mind that the longer a divorce goes on, the more money you’ll need to shell out to your attorney. Try to find someone who specializes in clean, quick, and amicable divorce proceedings instead.
5. Getting Too Emotionally Attached to Assets
Whether it’s a piece of artwork or you home, it’s easy to get emotional when it comes to divorce and your assets. Leaving the home you lived in as a couple can be extremely painful.
However, if you’re too attached to your assets, you could lose some of your bargaining power. It can also make things more difficult when it comes to settling and splitting your assets. If you can’t afford to stay in the home on your own, it’s best to walk away, sell it, and split the profits whenever possible.
6. Your Forget to Update Your Information
From real estate deeds to bank statements, it’s essential that you update your personal information on important accounts and paperwork. Consider sending your bills and other private information to a PO box temporarily to prevent prying eyes.
Many times, divorced couples forget to update their personal info and it either gets lost or sent to the other spouse. Sometimes, that spouse can use your information against you. Make a list of the things you’ll need to change after the divorce and then make those changes immediately.
7. Not Knowing the Lingo
Court terminology and legalese can be confusing when you’re going through the divorce process. It’s good to get a firm grasp and understanding of some important divorce terms so you understand exactly what’s happening.
You can get more info here about a few definitions that relate to most divorce proceedings. The more informed you are, the better prepared you’ll be to handle questions and answer your lawyer’s concerns. Take some time to understand what’s truly involved in a divorce so you’re ready to take it on.
8. Paying Your Lawyer Too Much
Of all the divorce tips regarding things to avoid, this one is all-too-common. In the heat of the moment, you’re likely going to call your lawyer every single time you think of something new to tell them.
Remember that most lawyers will charge you by the meeting, hour, or even by the phone call. These costs can really add up if you’re not prepared and you can be left footing the bill. To prevent paying too much, try to give your attorney as much information as humanly possible right from the beginning.
Divorce Tips and Things to Avoid
If you’re going through a divorce, you’ve probably been told what you should do to ensure the process is over quickly. But make sure you remember these essential divorce tips when it comes to the things you should avoid doing, too.
With a good lawyer and a thorough understanding of the process, you will survive your divorce and come out stronger in the end. Consider mediation whenever possible to help make sure your divorce goes smoothly.
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