Divorce is a stressful time, and it’s easy to make decisions based on emotions rather than logic. Here are some common mistakes people make during the divorce process—and how you can avoid them to ensure a smoother experience.
Acting Out of Spite
When emotions run high, you might feel tempted to act out of spite or revenge, whether by fighting over small possessions or making unreasonable demands. These actions only serve to prolong the divorce process, increase costs, and add unnecessary emotional pain. Instead, try to focus on what’s fair and reasonable for both parties to ensure a quicker and less painful resolution.
Letting Emotions Control Your Decisions
It’s understandable to feel angry or sad, but letting emotions drive your decisions can be damaging. Making impulsive choices out of frustration can have long-term consequences, especially when it comes to financial settlements or custody agreements. Always take a step back, breathe, and consult with your attorney before making any major decisions.
Oversharing with Friends and Family
While it’s natural to seek support from friends and family during your divorce, sharing too many details can backfire. Opinions from too many people can cloud your judgment, and what you say could get back to your ex. Keep your circle of confidants small, or better yet, talk to a therapist or divorce coach for objective advice.
Ignoring Legal Advice
Your attorney is there to guide you through the complexities of divorce, but some people make the mistake of ignoring their lawyer’s advice in favor of their own instincts. This can lead to poor decisions, longer court battles, and unnecessary stress. Remember, your lawyer has your best interests at heart—trust their expertise.
Using Social Media to Vent
Posting your frustrations about your ex on social media might feel good in the moment, but it’s a mistake that can have serious repercussions. Attorneys and judges often look at social media as evidence, and your posts could be used against you. Keep your emotions offline and focus on finding a more private outlet for your frustrations.
Hiding Assets or Lying About Finances
Trying to hide money or lie about your financial situation is not only dishonest, but it’s also illegal. If caught, you could face serious legal consequences, which could harm your case. Full transparency is essential for reaching a fair settlement and maintaining credibility with the court.
Badmouthing Your Ex in Front of the Kids
Talking negatively about your ex to your children or using them as messengers is one of the worst mistakes you can make. It puts unnecessary emotional pressure on them and can even hurt your custody case. Protect your kids by keeping them out of the conflict and focusing on their well-being.
Failing to Plan for the Future
Divorce isn’t just about ending a marriage—it’s also about setting yourself up for the future. Failing to consider your long-term financial goals, living arrangements, and retirement plans can create problems down the road. Work with a financial planner and your lawyer to ensure that you’re making decisions that benefit you in the long-term.
Conclusion
Going through a divorce can be overwhelming but avoiding these common mistakes can make the process smoother and less painful. Stay calm, trust your legal team, and make decisions with your future in mind.
Contact Springer & Lyle
If you’re navigating the challenges of divorce, the experienced team at Springer & Lyle is here to help. We provide compassionate legal support to guide you through this difficult time. Contact experienced family law attorney Daniel Abasolo at 940.387.0404 to schedule a consultation.
Springer & Lyle is located at 1807 Westminster, Denton, TX 76205.
