What Not To Do During A Divorce? Avoid These Common Mistakes!

Going through a divorce can be one of the most difficult experiences in life. Even for couples who have been separated for years, getting a divorce can still bring up complex emotions and challenges.

During such an emotionally charged time, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that could potentially make the process even more painful than it already is. When dealing with a divorce, there are actions and behaviors that you should steer clear from doing to ensure things run smoothly.

“Divorce is not the end of the world. It’s just the end of a relationship. -Jennifer Weiner

In this post, we will explore some of the typical pitfalls people fall into when navigating a divorce proceeding. From losing control of your finances to sabotaging yourself with negative behavior, these common mistakes can cause lasting damage if not avoided.

If you’re considering going through a divorce or currently in the midst of one, read on to learn about the top mistakes you should avoid to make the experience as manageable and healthy as possible.

Don’t Hide Assets

During divorces, there is often a great deal of anxiety that can cause people to make decisions they later regret. One common mistake made by individuals going through a divorce is hiding assets.

Hiding assets during a divorce proceeding is not only unethical but also illegal. Unfortunately, this does happen and spouses often use tactics to hide their assets beliefs the other spouse will never be able to track them down.

The ideal course of action in these situations is for both parties to disclose all of their assets and engage in open conversations about finances. Such communication should include discussing previous purchases and investments, current savings accounts, as well as child support plans.

If you hinder information from your spouse or withhold financial details pertaining to your belongings, it may result in legal consequences and damage your relationship with your ex-spouse. It’s best to stay honest and transparent throughout the entire divorce process.

Be Transparent About Your Finances

Finances are always an essential topic of conversation when two adults decide to go separate ways, regardless of how amicable the split is. The individual must share documents surrounding their assets, income/debt statements, taxes, and figures related to children fees/costs. Staying truthful is necessary when getting evaluated in judgment contingency.

Around $31 billion have gone undisclosed each year in the U.S. due to hidden money by couples facing separation. Not only is this act illegal – non-disclosure proves deceitful and dishonest in family court- clients who attempt to conceal assets tend to get into more trouble than those who exhibit ethical conduct trying to avoid conflict with creditors.

Divorce is difficult, but being anything less than truthful is detrimental. You never know what could come back around or expose itself during the proceedings. Transparency at every step can help build trust in every relationship involved.

Don’t Transfer Assets to Friends or Family

In trying times, you may feel the urge to hide your assets away from judgment. This could potentially lead to individuals selling off or transferring their properties to friends or family and falsely claiming it had happened before the divorce proceedings commenced.

This is not a wise tactic since these transfers appear quite transparent before the court, after which there will be legal consequences of misleading the family law court about financial matters. The courts have made provisions for such cases where they retrace these hidden assets and divide them among spouses equally.

The best way to handle assets before finalizing a divorce settlement is by openness about all assets through mutual cooperation and rightful acceptance of neutral evaluation by both sides – if necessary. It’s always important to remember that false misrepresentations and bad surprises don’t do good to anyone.

Avoid Making Large Purchases Before or During Divorce Proceedings

During divorce procedures, one should steer clear of making large investments or buying expensive luxury items. Such purchases are seen as inappropriate when the possibility of dividing assets arises. A purchase could easily be viewed negatively by either side during litigation, subsequently costing more than what was initially purchased.

Both parties should act mindfully while going through trial phases and try to avoid undoing settlements/damage any arrangements already put forth by the judge. Judges strongly advise on refraining from spending unnecessarily until arriving at a definite conclusion during ongoing divorce claims.

Consult with a Financial Advisor

To avoid potential damage to finances later on, hiring an excellent financial consultant might be useful. They are experienced enough to guide individuals concerning finances alongside choosing particular investment choices allowing protection from any unexpected loss to future benefits like social security/retirement funds.

Consulting with legal advisers could be the smartest decision you make to protect yourself. After all, lawyers will want their clients to come out of the divorces financially healthy and stable. With experts in their fields working side by side towards better solutions and agreements, there’s a higher chance for an achievable outcome during divorce settlement!

Don’t Involve Your Children in Your Disputes

One of the biggest mistakes that parents make during a divorce is involving their children in their disputes. Children can easily feel overwhelmed and emotionally burdened when their parents fight over custody, financial support, and other issues related to the divorce.

It’s crucial to shield your children from any drama or conflict that may arise during the divorce process. One way to do this is by avoiding discussing sensitive information with them. For example, you should never talk about child support payments, property division, or your ex-partner’s infidelity in front of your kids. Doing so can cause feelings of anxiety, insecurity, and confusion for your kids.

Involving your children in your disagreements with your spouse can also have lasting negative effects on their mental health and well-being. They may become more withdrawn, develop trust issues or even experience depression or anxiety as a result of their parent’s separation. Therefore it’s important to keep discussions between adults and let kids be kids.

Avoid Speaking Negatively About Your Ex to Your Children

During a divorce, you may feel angry, hurt, or betrayed by your partner. These emotions are normal, but it’s essential not to bad-mouth your ex-partner around the kids. Speaking negatively about your ex has long-lasting adverse impacts on your children, causing them discomfort, anger, lower self-esteem, and difficulties developing healthy relationships.

You want to avoid putting your kids in the middle of battling spouses, which can create an unhealthy environment. When discussing events surrounding the divorce with your children, ensure fault-finding and name-calling to your partner aren’t part of the conversation. Kids will often internalize these negative words and take sides which ultimately damages their own relationships with both parties involved.

Instead, try to be respectful towards your ex-spouse around the kids. Keep any arguments or disagreements away from them and let your kids see that you hold their other parent with respect. This approach creates a more harmonious home environment and avoids any unnecessary stress for your children.

Don’t Use Your Children as Messengers Between You and Your Ex

You should aim to make communication between yourself and your ex-partner efficient and avoid involving your children in conversations. Using your children as messengers can create confusion and emotional distress for your children. It also undermines the co-parenting relationship that is vital to maintain post-divorce.

If necessary use email or text to communicate with your ex partner instead of relying on message relay which puts pressure on children. Communication channels should always prioritize convenience and when personal contact just isn’t possible opt for alternative methods like video calls.

“Using your children as go-betweens can cause them feelings of anxiety as well as result in resentment for one or both parents. As a rule of thumb, if it’s not a crisis situation, try to keep your daily communication to note passing.” -Megan Bearce (MFT)

In case messaging is impossible, clearly state your message to your ex don’t insinuate an opinion, stick to simple facts surrounding parenting concerns shared by both parties. For instance, you could say “Please ensure our son arrives at school next week by 8 am” instead of saying “Make sure you’re not late picking up Johnny again.”

During this particularly tough time, how you handle disputes will impact both your life and those of your children. You want to minimize conflict associated with the legal procedures related to divorce, improve your children’s emotional stability and help everyone navigate through this challenging time.

Don’t Badmouth Your Ex on Social Media

Social media has become an integral part of our lives and it’s easy to vent out your frustrations on these platforms. However, posting negative comments or photos about your ex on social media can have severe consequences during the divorce process.

Avoiding badmouthing your partner will not only help you maintain a good reputation but also demonstrates that you are mature enough to handle the situation in a controlled manner. It is important to keep in mind that anything you post online can be used against you during court proceedings. Therefore, maintaining a positive attitude towards your ex on social media is crucial.

“Social media is a powerful vehicle for vindictiveness.” -Dr. Kristen Fuller

Avoid Posting Negative Comments or Photos About Your Ex

It’s imperative that you avoid making any negative posts or comments about your spouse on social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter. Such activity can create additional problems such as worsening relations between both parties involved, hurting each other’s feelings, and making matters worse.

Furthermore, airing your dirty laundry in public shows the world how immature and petty you’re being. Avoid sharing details of the divorce with others unless they need to know them; remember, what goes online stays online so think twice before sharing.

“Taking a relationship to social media means your fights would now be open discussions. This could lead to ridicule by total strangers, eventually causing more harm than good to all parties involved.” -Sherinan Tungwa

Don’t Use Social Media to Vent Your Frustrations About Your Divorce

If you’re somebody who uses social media to seek emotional support from your friends and family, then you should reconsider this behavior during your divorce process. Everybody looks for comfort from their near and dear ones, but doing it on social media is something you should avoid. Using social media as a platform to vent out your anger shows that you’re not in control of your emotions.

Instead, if you need somebody to talk to, reach out to friends, family, or even a professional counselor who can offer a safe space and support you emotionally in a much better way than social media ever could.

“Social media has totally changed the game when it comes to breakups today: we are more connected than ever before.” -Dr. Kristin Davin

Be Careful About Who You Allow Access to Your Social Media Accounts

You should be cautious about who you grant access to your social media accounts during such sensitive times. Additionally, someone without enough willpower or motive may upload inappropriate content on your account. While you don’t want to alienate yourself by locking down all connections, be careful with whom you share information regarding private details like the progress of the court proceedings.

It’s wise to monitor whoever manages your accounts actively and restrict unwanted activities through setting up some specific controls that only allow trusted users to handle anything related to your social media accounts.

“Be thoughtful when sharing personal experiences online, whether they involve divorce in general or specific details of your own situation.” -Jillian Berman

Consider Taking a Break From Social Media During the Divorce Process

If you think that you might not be able to resist posting negative comments or photos about your former spouse, then consider taking a break from social media platforms entirely until the divorce process is over. It’s essential that you concentrate on building a stronger foundation for yourself rather than getting into an argument with your ex-spouse over social media.

Social media may also trigger memories of your former partner, which in turn could affect the progress you’re making towards healing. Sometimes a change of scenery is all we need to focus on what’s important and take our minds off stress-inducing activities like social media.

“It’s time to recognize that social media does more than just connect consumers with friends and strangers alike; it affects us psychologically.” -Alexandra Samuel

Don’t Rush the Process

Going through a divorce can be a difficult and emotional experience. It’s understandable to want to get it over with as quickly as possible, but rushing the process could lead to making decisions that you’ll regret in the future.

Divorce is not just about ending a marriage; there are several other factors involved such as division of property, assets, and debts. It’s important not to make any hasty decisions without carefully considering your options.

If children are involved, it’s even more crucial to take time and make informed decisions that will benefit them in the long run. You don’t want to agree to a custody or support arrangement that may have negative effects on your child’s well-being.

Take Time to Make Informed Decisions

During a divorce, it’s essential to take the time to think through your decisions carefully. Whether it’s deciding on child custody arrangements or dividing assets, it’s essential to weigh all options before committing to anything.

You should gather all necessary information and negotiate on key issues before signing any agreement. For example, if you’re negotiating spousal support, consider issues like taxes, inflation, job prospects, income projections, retirement funds, etc.

This might require seeking advice from professionals like financial advisors, lawyers, or family counselors to provide objective opinions and guidance regarding your situation. A decision made today may have far-reaching consequences in years to come. Take the time now to ensure that you’ll be satisfied with the outcome in the future.

Don’t Agree to a Settlement Before You’ve Considered All Your Options

Signing a settlement agreement too early in the process is one common mistake many people make during a divorce. Doing so limits your ability to negotiate for better terms, therefore leading to regrets later.

If you’re making decisions while under emotional distress, there’s a likelihood that the agreement may not be fair or sufficient. You need to take some time after separation before negotiating with your spouse so that you can approach the talks more objectively and rationally

Moreover, note that an agreement signed without legal advice is usually unenforceable should the other party violate its provisions. A good settlement must adequately address all issues regarding custody, division of property, spousal support, and child support as appropriate for children’s interests if they are present.

Consult with a Divorce Attorney Before Making any Major Decisions

The process of divorce can get complicated fast. When it comes to major decisions such as child custody, support, and property division, consulting with a qualified divorce lawyer is often recommended.

An experienced attorney will explain the law and provide guidance about what options are available and likely outcomes to each choice made. They have knowledge around how legal proceedings work, including filing procedures and court timelines. An attorney could also provide recommendations on alternative dispute resolution methods, helping avoid conflict and save money in the long run.

A lawyer helps ensure that agreements reached follow state and federal laws, protecting one from unintentionally waiving important rights through signing documents. Even if getting a lawyer seems costly at first, it could save you much cash and peace of mind in the future.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

Negotiation is a critical component of divorce proceedings. It involves working with your spouse to reach a mutually agreeable solution to key issues like child custody and support, property and asset division, etc.

Your ultimate goal during negotiations would be to find common ground where both parties benefit rather than total defeat of one side. This is known as a “win-win” compromise. Negotiations require open communication, willingness to listen, and the ability to find creative solutions that are in the best interest of everyone involved.

“The only way to make peace is through negotiation; it is never achieved by unilateral action.” – Jesse Jackson

Divorces can be messy and emotional but rushing through any process and not fully considering your options often leads to more pain financially and emotionally. You should take time to assess your situation, consider every option available to you, seek professional help when needed, negotiate peacefully with your spouse, and lastly put your children’s interests first.

Don’t Ignore Your Emotional Health

Going through a divorce can be emotionally draining. It is important to take care of yourself during this time and not ignore your emotional health.

Seek Support from Friends and Family

One of the most important things you can do for yourself during a divorce is to seek support from friends and family members. They can provide emotional comfort, listen when you need someone to talk to, and offer practical assistance when necessary. Sometimes all you need is an ear to vent your feelings or someone to distract you with activities so that you don’t dwell on negative thoughts about your divorce.

It’s okay to ask those closest to you for help during this difficult time. Try reaching out to trusted relatives, siblings, friends, or co-workers who have gone through similar situations before. If you feel compelled to share your emotions with others who may also be experiencing marital issues, consider joining a divorce support group.

Consider Seeing A Therapist Or Counselor

If you find it hard to cope with your thoughts or emotions, it may be wise to consult with a licensed therapist or counselor. Mental healthcare professionals are trained to guide individuals in managing their pain, anxiety, depression, and uncertainty related to separation or divorce.

A divorce often brings up unpleasant memories of past experiences and raises numerous questions about the future. Therefore, counseling therapy offers a platform where you can express your concerns privately and receive feedback from objective perspectives. In turn, this will enable you to discover coping mechanisms that work best for your particular situation.

Take Time For Self-Care And Self-Reflection

Taking care of yourself is an essential part of recovering from a divorce. This means eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and trying to reduce stress as much as possible. Self-care helps you maintain your physical and emotional well-being so that you can focus on other aspects of your life without feeling drained or depleted.

Self-reflection is also a valuable tool for coping with the aftermath of divorce. You need to take time for introspection, examining what went wrong in your marriage, finding what could have been done differently, and exploring ways to avoid getting into similar situations in the future. Try creating a journal to express your thoughts and feelings honestly. It will help enhance clarity about past experiences-both good and bad-and empower you to move forward.

“The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.” -William James

Taking care of your emotional health during this difficult time requires several steps, including seeking support from loved ones, consulting with mental health experts, practicing self-care, and indulging in self-examination. By following these tips, you’ll be able to survive the rough patches of separation or divorce—effectively healing yourself emotionally and mentally better-equipped to restart your journey on the path towards fulfillment and happiness once again.

Frequently Asked Questions