Going through a divorce can be one of the most terrible situations in a person’s life. Even if it is an amicable divorce, there can be a fair amount of stress involved. So imagine when it is not amicable.
It can sometimes get to the point where it can be difficult to cope. In divorce, there can be many pitfalls, especially if you do not have a good divorce lawyer. Let’s take a look at some common mistakes that many people are guilty of and how to try and make the best of a bad situation.
1. Getting Advice From Family & Friends
While your family and friends care about you and obviously look out for you, getting divorce advice from them can be a mistake. Perhaps they themselves do have some experience of going through a divorce. However, the only one who has the knowledge and experience to offer advice is your lawyer. Friends and family do not possess the legal knowledge in such a complicated matter. In fact, there are times when a family or friend may offer you advice that can actually cause more harm than good. Only a divorce lawyer will know your case and situation.
2. Using Children As Pawns
Let’s face it; a lot of the time, children are caught in the crossfire. Yet, they are sometimes used as pawns in the divorce process. Children are sometimes used to either hurt the other parent or perhaps to get some kind of advantage. Protecting the children should be one of the main things. They are innocent and incredibly vulnerable. A divorce can have lifelong repercussions for them. Sometimes, using children this way can have legal implications. A good lawyer may be able to protect them from being caught in the middle. A lawyer may also be able to arrange for some kind of therapist to help your children through this difficult time.
3. Not Having A Budget
Going through a divorce will have major financial changes. Suddenly, from having two incomes, a person now has to rely on a single income. Not only that, with divorce, a person is faced with major financial issues which they have to shoulder on their own now. That is assuming they have a job. If not, the money is going to have to come from somewhere. You need to create a realistic budget and stick to it, even though you think that you are financially alright.
4. Your Heart Must Not Rule Your Head
In a divorce, emotions can naturally play a big part. However, you must try never to let your heart rule your head. Logic should not be overruled by emotions. A good lawyer can help you see things clearly. As an impartial party, the lawyer can help you to make good decisions that are not based on anger and frustration.
5. Not Documenting Your Divorce
It is very important for you and possibly your lawyer if you keep track of your ex. Write down things as they happen. You will have it if you need it and so will your lawyer. This could make a telling difference.
The best thing you can do is to hire an experienced and successful divorce lawyer. This is the only way you will stand the best chance of getting a favourable outcome.
