If you are getting a divorce, you can spare yourself unnecessary hardships and costs by avoiding some of the most common missteps. Many of the mistakes made during this process can have lasting ripple effects, so it is in your best interests to avoid them altogether. One of the best steps you can take toward avoiding these mistakes is to hire an experienced divorce attorney who can guide you through the process. Your attorney cannot make your decisions for you, but you can carefully consider the advice you receive to make a well-informed decision.
Preventable Mistakes You Should Avoid
Most people know that oversharing on social media is a major mistake they should avoid during the divorce process, but there are other more common errors that seem less obvious.
Here are some common mistakes you should be aware of:
- Not collecting the necessary paperwork: You must gather as many financial documents as you can. The documents you collect should show the balances for your financial accounts, account numbers, Social Security statements, and mortgage payments, to name a few. Everyone’s financial situation is different, however, so ask your attorney which documents you should gather.
- Not understanding the tax implications: During a divorce, it is crucial to understand what you are fighting for and how it might impact your taxes. Keeping the marital home might sound like a big win, but you might not be able to afford it if the property taxes are too much for you to manage without the benefit of two incomes.
- Badmouthing your spouse in front of the kids: If you try to poison your children against their parent, it will likely harm your chances of obtaining the custody arrangement you are seeking. Courts generally consider the involvement of both parents to be in the best interests of the children, so you do not want to look like an uncooperative co-parent.
- Letting your emotions drive your decisions: Divorce is undoubtedly an emotionally charged experience, but one of the greatest mistakes spouses make is allowing their feelings to influence the choices they make. A lot is at risk during this process, so do not let your emotions get the best of you.
- Using the divorce to get revenge on your spouse: No matter how angry you are with your spouse, using your divorce as a form of payback will only backfire on you. The more you fight, the longer it will take. The more time you spend in court, the higher your legal fees will be. Only fight for the things that mean something to you and let go of the rest.
Reach Out to One of Our Experienced Divorce Attorneys
If you are getting a divorce, reach out to the family law team at Nichols Dixon PLLC. Our divorce attorneys have the compassion and knowledge needed to effectively guide you throughout this complex legal process. With us, you will receive the personalized attention you deserve.
Call our law office today at (405) 294-1511 to schedule a consultation and get started on your case.