Unfortunately, when divorce is inevitable, you may feel like getting married in the first place was a big mistake. At Invictus Law, we understand that divorce is an emotional process. However, growing and learning are also part of life. Don’t make a mistake today and jeopardize your future. Our legal team wants to help you avoid common pitfalls individuals face when divorcing.
Protect yourself and your family. Avoid these five most common divorce mistakes as you navigate moving forward with your life.
Mistake #1 – Not Seeking Legal Advice
The best way to protect yourself and your family is to seek the help of an experienced family law attorney. Although you may have had an amicable parting and mutually agreed to the divorce terms, you need an advocate to protect your interests. Never accept legal advice from your spouse or their attorney. You need your own representation to help you through the potential complexities of the Virginia legal framework.
A divorce will impact you, your children, and your financial stability. Regardless of who initiated the divorce or what your current relationship with your spouse may be, discuss your unique situation with an experienced family law attorney in a compassionate and confidential environment.
Mistake #2 – Acting with Your Heart and Not Your Head
Dissolving a marriage is emotionally taxing. You may experience anger, resentment, frustration, sadness, and grief. Going through a range of these emotions is normal. However, you cannot let your emotions dictate the direction of the divorce. Acting out of anger, frustration, or revenge can complicate your case and backfire.
Never attempt to hide money or assets from your spouse. Do not attempt to use children “to get back at” your spouse in any way. Acting out of emotion rather than rational thought can jeopardize your case and lead to legal repercussions.
Mistake #3 – Involving Your Children
Children deserve to understand what is happening with their parents and how those changes may affect them. There are age-appropriate ways to discuss divorce with children and what it means when mommy and daddy no longer want to be together. Including your children in the process can be a valuable way to help them understand their changing world and family dynamics.
However, never involve your children in the potential negative aspects of divorce. Do not attempt to alienate them from their relationship with their other parent. Additionally, do not bad mouth or disparage your spouse in front of your children. These actions needlessly hurt your children and can impact custody arrangements.
Mistake #4 – Not Accounting for the Third Party in Your Relationship
A common mistake couples make during a divorce is not accounting for the third party in their relationship: the Internal Revenue Service. Divorce settlements may involve dividing assets, spousal support ,child support, and other financial considerations. There may be significant tax concerns involved with divorce, which should be considered by both parties when moving forward with a settlement.
While Invictus Law does not give tax advice, we can help you find professional assistance with these matters.
Mistake #5 – Not Being Honest with Your Attorney
Your divorce attorney is supposed to help you resolve your situation favorably. However, your attorney can only work with the information you provide. Divorce can be painful, even embarrassing. However, not disclosing everything to your attorney can cause significant problems and put you at a disadvantage. Be honest and straightforward with your attorney. With accurate information, your attorney can efficiently craft a divorce strategy addressing the specifics of your case. Attempting to hide assets or vital information can sabotage your case.
Contact an Experienced Virginia Divorce Attorney for Help
Divorce can be challenging on many fronts. At Invictus Law, our legal team understands that you need support now more than ever. Our compassionate team can help you navigate this new chapter by protecting you and your family. Arrange a confidential consultation today by contacting our Virginia Beach office at 757-317-5125.
