Common Mistakes to Avoid in Divorce

Avoiding Similar Actions

Divorce is a common occurrence in the United States. While many people go through a divorce without any major problems, there are also many people who take actions that can complicate and prolong their divorce proceedings. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common divorce mistakes that people make and how to avoid them.

Dragging Out the Process

One common divorce mistake that people make is dragging out the process in order to get revenge on their spouse. This can end up hurting both parties and making the entire process much longer than it needs to be. It's important to remember that divorcing your spouse is not going to fix all of your problems, and trying to punish them will only end up hurting you in the long run.

If you're feeling angry or hurt, try communicating with your spouse instead of resorting to childish tactics, or speak with your attorney about how to move forward. Divorce is already a difficult process, so try to avoid making it any worse than it has to be.

Dating During Divorce

It's important to avoid dating during divorce, as it can complicate and prolong the process. Dating can also lead to animosity between you and your soon-to-be and can make reaching a settlement more difficult. If you're not ready to be in a relationship, it's best to focus on yourself and your legal proceedings.

Taking this time for yourself will allow you to heal emotionally and move on with your life more smoothly. It also sends a strong message to your ex that you're moving on and aren't interested in reconciling. When you are ready to start dating again, take things slow and be selective about who you date. This will help ensure that your new relationship is healthy and has a good chance of lasting.

Refusing to Negotiate

One of the most common divorce mistakes is refusing to negotiate. This can lead to costly and time-consuming litigation. It's important to remember that negotiation is always an option, no matter how contentious the divorce may seem. If both parties are willing to communicate and work together, they can often reach a resolution without going to court. However, if one party refuses to negotiate or tries to bully the other into submission, the divorce will likely be much more difficult. In the end, it's usually best for both parties to try and reach a settlement rather than let a judge decide their fate.

Failing to Plan for the Future

One of the most common divorce mistakes is failing to plan for the future. This includes not planning for a new financial future. It's important to have a solid financial plan in place after divorce, especially if you are going to be responsible for yourself and your children. You'll need to create or update your budget and make sure you have enough money saved up to cover expenses like rent, utilities, food, and childcare. If you're not sure where to start, consult with a financial planner or attorney who specializes in family law. By planning ahead, you can minimize the stress that comes with divorce and make the transition smoother for everyone involved.

Attempting Divorce on Your Own

One of the biggest common divorce mistakes is attempting to do it on your own. This is a complex process, and there are many things you may not be aware of. Without an attorney's guidance, you could make costly and potentially harmful mistakes.

For example, you may not understand what property is considered marital and therefore subject to division in a divorce. Or you may not realize that you're entitled to spousal support payments from your ex-spouse. Consulting with an attorney can help ensure that your divorce goes as smoothly as possible.

The team at Schipani, Norman & McLain, P.A. is ready to help you work through your divorce and to provide you with the guidance needed to avoid making similar mistakes. Schedule your consultation by calling us at (941) 499-8154 or by visiting our website.