Going through a divorce can be one of the hardest things a person will ever have to go through during their lifetime.
Since divorce can be very taxing on the mind, body, and finances, some couples may choose to consider alternative solutions to marital issues. They may try mediation, counseling, or legal temporary separation.
In the end, if you and your spouse decide that divorce is best suited for your particular situation, there are a few things you both should refrain from doing.
Read over these three important key points before you file for divorce.
1. Don’t Be Spiteful
Divorces can sometimes bring out the worst in people and cause people to act in very spiteful ways.
This spiteful behavior can come as a result of resentful feelings one spouse may have towards the other for something the other may have done. Things that can provoke spiteful behavior are:
- Infidelity within a marriage
- Lies
- Non-mutual financial decisions
Don’t fall victim to your emotions when going through a divorce. Seek legal and mental counseling when necessary, and don’t make unwise choices to get back at your spouse.
Remember, anything you do can and will be used against you in court.
2. Don’t Use Your Children As Collateral
Unlike pets, children are not considered property and should never be treated as such. Under no circumstance should you ever bring your child or children into the middle of an ugly divorce.
Divorce can be very traumatizing to a child.
Things that should be completely avoided when handling children during a divorce are:
- Refusing to let the other parent see a child
- Bribing a child with gifts in hopes of trying to get them to choose their favorite parent
- Coercing a child into lying on the other parent
- Taking children and fleeing to another city or state
- Hiding children with friends and family members
If safety is a concern, there may be exceptions to a few of the points mentioned above. However, you should always report any threats your spouse is making to harm you, themselves, pets, or children.
Reports and such proof as text messages, audio recordings, or videos will help protect you from a harmful spouse who may decide to bend the truth in court. In addition, seek legal advice before making any decisions regarding children and possible safety precautions.
3. Don’t Fight Over Money or Assets
Never try to hide money and assets, or empty any joint bank accounts in an effort to leave your spouse empty-handed.
Depending on the state that you are in, illegally selling and hiding assets or hiding money could work greatly against your divorce case.
Not only will a sudden change in your financial habits raise suspicion during legal proceedings, but it can also cause you to get sanctioned– depending on the laws for your state.
Have You Decided to File for Divorce?
Making the decision to file for divorce can be a very daunting and difficult decision to make, and should never be made when emotions are severely unsettled.
Understand that millions of people file for divorce every year, and you are not alone.
Don’t choose to just talk to family or friends about something so impactful to your future. Speak to a legal professional today.
Contact us, we’re here to help!
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