Going through a divorce isn’t easy, and it isn’t something most people do every day. Chances are, you’ll make a few mistakes throughout the process. But some mistakes are much bigger than others. Here are three mistakes you really don’t want to make:
- Not Reading All Your Paperwork – don’t throw away your rights by thinking that important information doesn’t exist in the fine print – the Judge isn’t always going to put something important in bold letters for you. The Court system is extremely unforgiving, and if you miss a hearing, it is possible for the Judge to award your ex whatever they are asking for. In other words, if you’re not there to participate in your case, it will go on without you. There’s not much you can do after the fact, so read what the Court sends you. Most lawyers have a few horror stories about a client that didn’t read the fine print – don’t let that be you.
- Thinking in Terms of “We” – if you’re going through a divorce, your marriage is ending, and there is no more “we.” While it’s great to think in terms of a team as far as co-parenting is concerned (if that applies to you), thinking in terms of “we” when it comes to making financial decisions, like property division, can set you back years. You will need to rewire your brain to think in terms of what is best for you. What are your goals? Where do you see yourself in five years? What is important to you in the divorce? It may sound simple and easy, but when you’re making decisions with someone you once deeply loved, you can easily fall back into your old ways of thinking. You need to focus on what’s best for you, and make your financial decisions accordingly
- Sticking with the Wrong Lawyer – this may come as a surprise to you, but not all lawyers are geniuses (shocking, right?!?). Some are better than others both in Court and in their analysis of legal issues, some are more trustworthy than others, and some are just a better fit for you than others. You may think that you are better off sticking with your not-so-sharp attorney, since you started with them and have already spent money on a retainer. But that may end up costing you a lot more money in the long run, if you get bad advice. How well does your attorney know your story? Or have you just spoken with their paralegal? What about the process? Do YOU understand what’s going on in your divorce? Although your attorney should be advising you regarding your options, ultimately, you are the one making the decisions in your case. It’s extremely important that your lawyer takes the time to help you understand what’s going on in your case, so you can make decisions effectively. Don’t stick it out with a lawyer that you don’t have confidence in – it matters who you hire.
You’re bound to make mistakes when going through your divorce. But those mistakes don’t have to be fatal. Keep your focus on your future, read your paperwork, and be sure that your attorney is helping you. Contact me for a free consultation, and make sure you’re on the right track for your future.