While no divorce case is the same, there are common mistakes some people make during their divorce process. If you are currently in the middle of your own divorce negotiations, or you and your partner are considering a divorce, here are four mistakes you will want to avoid to ensure a smooth and fair process.
- Not hiring divorce lawyers when your ex has one. Divorce lawyers are an essential asset during the divorce process, for both parties. Emotions are running high, even if the divorce is uncontested, and you want to ensure you have someone on your side with your best interests in mind. Divorce lawyers have the experience to serve as a mediator, assist with the division of assets, and assist with child custody negotiations if necessary.
- Setting unrealistic financial expectations. It’s important for both parties in the divorce to set realistic expectations about financial decisions and assets. Don’t assume that you’ll keep the home in the divorce or that your ex will sell the property. Marital debts of both parties will be reviewed as part of the equitable distribution, ignoring these debts or other financial implications could put you at risk for even greater debt.
- Competing rather than co-parenting. When children are involved, it is crucial to put your differences aside in order to co-parent your children together. It is vital to remember to keep their best interests in mind as well. Financially competing against one another in order to appear to be the “better” parent, or speaking ill of your spouse in front of your children, can make them uncomfortable during a big change in their lives. It may also be used against you during custody negotiations. Focus instead on how to work together and properly co-parent during this difficult time.
- Not planning for financial changes. Financial changes are a consideration that many miss. After your divorce, your finances will change, not only because of divided assets but also often due to a single income providing for two households. In addition, it is wise to reconsider your retirement strategy. With this in mind, give yourself a boost when it comes to your financial literacy during the early stages of your divorce. The more prepared you are for the future, the more likely you are to succeed in your financial goals.
- Trying to negotiate a deal before you know your legal rights. Nothing is more challenging than trying to undo a handshake agreement that you later realize is not fair under the law, when you later meet with a family law specialist to draft up the agreement. Sometimes you are not allowed to structure the deal legally in the way you negotiated it or the deal is so unfair that it can put you in the position to have to choose between losing thousands of dollars or starting over. Either way, starting over can set your negotiations back many months and costs thousands of dollars to reset your ex’s expectations. This is why it is so important that you learn about your rights before you try to come up with solutions.
If you find yourself in a similar situation and seeking an experienced divorce lawyer or family divorce attorney, we are here to help. For over fifty years, the law offices of Conrad Trosch and Kemmy have provided the divorce attorneys Charlotte NC residents can trust to guide them through their divorce process. For more information about our Charlotte lawyers or to schedule a consultation, contact the law offices of Conrad Trosch and Kemmy today.