When you are in the midst of a divorce, it can be hard to know which way is up or to keep your bearings. Take a deep breath! For now, you need to keep your wits about you and remain grounded. Avoid these common pitfalls as you navigate the process and take steps towards establishing your new life. (You can see our divorce attorney services here).

1. Letting Your Emotions Lead Your Financial Decisions

Don’t text or email your partner angry. A sharp tongue is not going to win you any favors with your soon-to-be-ex. It’s better to keep communication just to the necessities right now around your shared responsibilities. The old adages that anything you say can be used against you and think with your head and not your heart ring true for a reason. A divorce is like a business transaction. A journal is a much better place for documenting transgressions and letting out anger, and it makes for a good record for later.

2. Expecting a Big Windfall Right Out of The Gates

Two households now must exist on the same income that used to support one. If you were the primary breadwinner in your family, expect to pay child support. However, once you are single, you can begin to control the budget a little more and start to use your income at your own discretion.

3. Fighting About Things You Don’t Care About

If it doesn’t matter to you, let it go. It‘s tempting to spite your spouse by fighting over petty things, but it distracts from more important matters and could cost you legal fees. On the other hand, don’t take a passive role in your divorce or assume it’s all being handled. You need to take an active stance and fight for what is important to you.

4. Not asking your spouse for all pertinent financial records or hiding assets.

Collect as much documentation as you can before your divorce starts. Obtain copies of tax returns, bank statements, wills, loans, credit card statements, deeds to property, car registration, business policies, and insurance policies.

If all assets are not properly disclosed, your divorce could take months longer as your case goes through the discovery process.

5. Starting a Business or Make a Big Purchase

Consult with a divorce lawyer before starting a business or making a major purchase. If you use marital income or assets to finance your business or make a major purchase, you may complicate assets that must later be divided during divorce.

6. Spreading the News Around Town

If possible, skip the big Facebook posts and make a private announcement to friends and family instead. Some people take it a step further and wait to announce the split until the divorce is finalized. Remember, social media posts can be used against you in divorce proceedings, and proceed with caution before you badmouth your ex publicly.

7. Involving The Kids

Keep your kid’s life as close to normal as possible. It will save your kids unnecessary heartache, and you will fare better in court.

8. Not Obtaining Quality Legal Advice

You don’t need to navigate this process alone. If you have questions on the best way to proceed with your separation, Herlihy Family Law is here to help you through the process. Call our divorce lawyers at 251-432-7909. Serving the greater mobile area Mobile, Saraland, Satsuma, Fairhope, Daphne, Spanish Fort, and Foley.