4 Pitfalls to Watch Out for During a Sudden Divorce
Divorce can be a difficult process. Even though divorces are rarely easy, there are things that people can do to make it a lot harder. There are several divorce pitfalls that you will need to avoid if you want the situation to end quickly and without either party being completely ripped off in the settlement.
Allowing Family Members to Have Control
It is okay to have the support of your family members and friends during this difficult time. They likely have your best interests in mind. However, you do want to allow what they say to cloud your judgment. They should not be giving you legal advice unless they are attorneys. This is particularly true when your legal advice is coming from those on your spouse’s side of the family, as they may be using the situation to get a better settlement for your spouse at your expense.
Going Without Mediation
Mediation is designed to solve disagreements and issues, especially when the situation becomes too heated for the individuals involved to behave rationally. You and your spouse won’t agree on everything, so you need a third party to mediate. Child custody, assets, child support and spousal support are some of the main things that couples fight about when they are going through a divorce. A mediator will help issues get resolved as quickly as possible while keeping both parties’ interests in mind.
Not Having a Post-Divorce Financial Plan
Divorce can take a huge toll on your finances. That is why one of the biggest mistakes that you can make after going through a divorce is not having a financial plan. You may be used to living a certain way, but you may not be able to afford to live that way after the divorce has been finalized. You should plan to make a huge adjustment in your lifestyle. If you plan to get child support and alimony, then this should be included in your financial plan.
Not Hiring a Divorce Attorney
Many people do not think that it is important to have an attorney. It is possible for you to go through a divorce without an attorney. However, it will be a lot harder, and it may take you longer to go through your divorce. While a mediator helps seek a neutral result to benefit both parties, your lawyer will be looking out specifically for your interests and can help you avoid making unnecessary concessions in the settlement. Your divorce lawyer is your personal guide to get through the divorce process and help you lose as little as legally possible in the proceedings.
You do not want to make your divorce harder than what it is. You should not allow your family members to give you legal advice. You should also hire a mediator and a divorce attorney. Furthermore, you will need to include a post-divorce financial plan.