You know that getting a divorce is the right decision. The tension and stress are a weight on you, your spouse and your entire family. The question is, where do you start?
In these situations, you can often find out where to start by knowing what to avoid. Understanding the common mistakes and risks can help you find a starting point regarding this life-changing decision.
What are some common mistakes made during divorces?
There are several mistakes that spouses make all too frequently while going through the divorce process. For example, badmouthing spouses on social media has recently become a serious risk in divorces, especially when it comes to custody cases. While there are many do’s and don’ts, there are three mistakes in particular that you should avoid as you begin the process of divorce:
- Not considering all the options: Getting a divorce does not automatically mean you have to go to court. You have many options to help you navigate the end of your marriage, including mediation and arbitration. You should carefully weigh all of these options with your lawyer and determine which one is the best for your family, your goals and individual circumstances.
- Moving too fast: Once you decide to divorce, it is understandable that you want to get things settled and move on as soon as possible. That is why the first thing many people wonder when they begin the process is how long the divorce will take. However, a divorce is a time when it is critical to pay attention to the details. The agreements you reach in your divorce will directly affect your future. You can modify these agreements in certain cases, but taking your time and avoiding mistakes proactively is critical.
- Not accepting change: Some of the primary objectives of divorce are to maintain each spouse’s standard of living as much as possible and divide marital property equitably. Even so, divorce will result in significant changes – especially with respect to finances. Clinging to the lifestyles they had before the divorce can lead to disaster post-divorce. This can often cause more emotional and financial stress in the long run.
Beginning the process of a divorce is not easy. However, taking steps to prepare can help you protect yourself and your future while preventing mistakes.
The first step in avoiding mistakes? Getting informed.
It is important to be informed before proceeding with a divorce. It can make a big difference in how you approach the process as well as your future. Additionally, it can also help you identify risks and potential mistakes before they become a serious issue. It is often helpful to:
- Speak with an experienced family law attorney so you know what to expect
- Research North Carolina’s divorce rules to understand how you can move forward
This can feel overwhelming, but this knowledge truly can help you feel confident as you proceed. Mistakes can often be fixed. However, watching out for and avoiding them can help smooth the way to your new happily-ever-after.