Going through a divorce is a tough time for anyone. It’s a process that is emotionally, mentally, and financially draining. From managing your emotions to the financial strain, it’s easy to feel like you’re losing control.
As a result, many people make mistakes during their divorce that can have long-term consequences. These include financial hardship, alienation from children, and even a damaged reputation.
But it’s never too late to fix a mistake. If you’re considering getting divorced or are currently going through the process, here are some mistakes to avoid.
Don’t Drag it Out
The longer your divorce takes, the more it will cost you emotionally and financially. If you can, try to come to an agreement with your spouse outside of court so that you can avoid a long, drawn-out divorce process. This is particularly important if you have children. Dragging the process out will only make things more difficult for them.
Don’t be Emotional in Court
It’s perfectly natural to feel emotional during your divorce proceedings. After all, this is a major life change that you’re going through. However, keeping your emotions in check when you’re in court is important. Arguing with your spouse or becoming too emotional can be used against you and may hurt your case.
Other activities to avoid in court include:
- Being ignorant to questions: Not understanding questions posed by the judge can make you look unprepared or unintelligent.
- Speaking out of turn: Interrupting other people in court will not only be seen as disrespectful, but it may also hurt your case.
- Being unprepared: It’s important to come to court with all the necessary documents and information to present your case in the best way possible.
Don’t Provide False Information
Intentionally or unintentionally, providing false information to the court is a serious offence. Lying or omitting important facts will not only hurt your case, but it can also lead to legal action.
Don’t Hide Assets
Hiding assets is one of the biggest mistakes you can make during a divorce. Not only is it illegal, but it will also come back to bite you later on down the line. If your spouse finds out you’ve been hiding assets, they may be less likely to agree to a fair settlement. So, play it safe and be honest about your assets.
Don’t Badmouth Your Spouse
Badmouthing your spouse—whether in front of your children or your friends—isn’t going to do any good. Not only will it make you look bad, but it could also negatively impact custody arrangements or spousal support payments. If you need to vent about your divorce, do so privately or with a therapist.
Don’t Make Major Life Changes
Making major life changes—like buying a new house or quitting your job—during or shortly after getting divorced can have serious consequences. These changes can impact everything from custody arrangements to spousal support payments, so it’s best to avoid them if possible.
Bonus: Use Deed Poll to Change Your Name
This isn’t strictly a mistake, but an important tip to remember. If you decide to change your name during the divorce process, use Deed Poll rather than just assuming that your marriage certificate is sufficient evidence of a legal name change. This will avoid any problems with government agencies or banks down the line.
Final Word
No one wants to make mistakes during their divorce, but it’s easy to do so if you’re overwhelmed. Avoiding these common mistakes can help ensure your divorce goes as smoothly and quickly as possible.
Do you still have any questions or concerns? Ask us in the comments. We’ll be happy to help.
