Divorce, just like anything else, has things you can do to help your case and things you can do to hurt it. The problem is that most people going through a divorce are under so much stress that they react emotionally, which is almost always going to hurt your case. We know how emotionally challenging the process can be on our clients, so we came up with these simple guidelines to help you through your divorce.
What to Do During a Divorce:
- Tell your attorney the truth, even if it’s embarrassing.
- Give your attorney the information they need promptly.
- Create an inventory of all your property and its value.
- Gather all of your financial documents together for easy review.
- Make a list of the activities you and your children do together.
- Make a calendar that outlines the time you spend with your kids and the time your spouse does.
- Create a budget for your children’s monthly expenses.
- Behave. Once your divorce begins, you should act as though your actions are being monitored and will come back to haunt you.
- Remember that your children have ears and may overhear conversations best left to adults.
- Make any decision with your kids’ well-being firmly in mind. It won’t be a wrong move.
- Make sure you have a clear understanding of what you want out of the divorce and your priorities before you go to see an attorney.
What Not to do During a Divorce:
- Don’t drag your kids into the fight; a divorce is hard enough on them.
- Don’t argue with your spouse, and if you do, never in front of the kids.
- Don’t insult or criticize your spouse where your children can hear – and if they are in the home, assume they can hear you.
- Don’t say anything that you wouldn’t eventually want the judge to hear.
- Don’t involve your kids in the divorce. If they ask questions, answer them, but don’t give them details best left to adults.
- Don’t restrict access. Unless you are afraid for children’s safety, never deny them access to your spouse. They need you both in their lives.
- Don’t change the locks at your house unless your attorney tells you to.
- Don’t go on any spending sprees.
- Don’t try to hide your assets. They always get discovered, and it will hurt your credibility when they come to light.
We hope these simple guidelines can help you get prepared to make the most out of your situation. For expert advice from our qualified and compassionate attorneys, contact us today to schedule your consultation.