Divorce is relatively common. Roughly half of all marriages eventually end in divorce. Despite the process being part of many people’s lives, there is a lot of misinformation circulating about divorce.
Many people end up making mistakes during their divorce that affect their lives for years afterward. Those preparing for divorce often want to limit how the end of a marriage affects their future. They may potentially achieve that goal by learning from the mistakes of others.
What are some of the most common and preventable mistakes people make during divorces?
Oversharing on social media
It has become second nature for many people to turn to their preferred social media platform during a difficult time. They can instantly connect with dozens of people who can offer them practical and emotional support.
Unfortunately, sharing online about a divorce can cause a host of challenges. People that the individual views as friends might share their private content with their spouse. What they say could constitute defamation or could help their spouse push for unfavorable custody or property division terms.
Trying to start a hidden nest egg
Many people contemplating divorce try to set resources aside to support themselves later. While that may be an admirable goal, how they go about it may cause trouble later.
People generally need to report any assets they set aside for personal use as part of the marital estate. The failure to do so could lead to accusations of hidden assets and changes to the final property division outcome.
Fighting without a goal in mind
During divorce, spouses often need to choose between compromising and pushing for specific terms. Generally speaking, the people who are happiest in the long run with their divorces approach the process with specific goals in mind.
People who fight over each issue based on emotions rather than their long-term needs may spend more on the divorce and may ultimately feel less satisfied with the terms of the divorce. Those who stay focused on goals can recognize when fighting may not be beneficial.
Trying to manage the process alone
While most people facing complex legal issues recognize that they need assistance, divorcing spouses frequently assume that they can handle the process alone. They may end up putting themselves at a major disadvantage by forgoing legal representation during the divorce process.
From inappropriate concessions to paperwork rejected by the courts, there are many complications that can arise when people try to handle divorce without the support of a legal professional. People typically need guidance even before they choose to file.
Learning from the mistakes of others and approaching a pending divorce with accurate information about the legal process can help people achieve the best outcomes. Divorce may be complex and can often be a lengthy process, but it doesn’t have to cause emotional and financial devastation.