Every couple is unique, and so are their situations. However, when it comes to divorce or separation, there is always a right way and wrong way to go about it. If you and your spouse wanted to pursue a divorce, as much as possible, it is essential that you should opt for the process to go on smoothly.
Going through a divorce is not easy. It may be the hardest challenge you may encounter emotionally. When you are going through a divorce, you can’t avoid playing the blame game and be angry at your spouse. You may hate or resent them. Aside from mental health, your finances can also be affected.
If you are planning to divorce your spouse, here are the ten common mistakes, you should avoid.
- Inaccurate Financial Information
You should remember that your finances play a big part in your separation. Failing to produce accurate financial data may lead to some issues to arise. It is crucial to look at the family’s finances as a whole. Be honest in producing financial reports about your debt, assets as well as expenses that represent your marital lifestyle. You should also work out on a projecting a budget for each household, especially if you have children to consider.
- Getting too emotional
While divorce is a roller coaster of emotion, it’s only natural to feel anger, resentment, betrayal, grief and sadness. However, if you want the process to go on smoothly, you should not let your emotions take over the negotiation process. You may take a counselling session to help you control your emotions and process your feelings constructively. This way, you’ll have control over your feelings and make smart decisions regarding your separation.
- Spending big amounts of money
It’s only common to worry about your finances once your divorce is finalised. However, you should not be tempted to make any big purchases before your divorce process is finished. Buying a new car, travelling or even buying expensive gifts for your kids should not be done as you might not know how to afford these things after your divorce especially if you relied on your spouse financially in the past.
Unusual spending habits may also put you on the bad side of the courts.
- Not preparing your documents
Documents such as tax returns and credit statements may have been stored away for years but you should start to organise them and other important documents that your lawyer may need. Sort through your documents as much as possible even if it can be an overwhelming task.
Such documentation is required during the process, thus having easy access to them may reduce stress and ake the proceedings go on smoothly.
- Focusing on the past
Holding on to the past can hinder you from moving forward. While this situation may hold true especially if your spouse is reluctant, tackling your divorce will be hard and less effective if you, your partner or both of you are still focusing on the past. Sift that focus on what the future holds instead. Getting help form counsellor can help you develop a vision for your future and help you create plans to achieve them.
- Refusing to compromise
Do not be locked up in “my way” mentality. Compromise is necessary for both of you to avoid further conflicts, stress and frustration. You and your spouse should be willing to compromise to achieve an agreement that both parties are comfortable with. Compromising is the only way to reach a middle ground, and it is very important, especially if your kids are involved.
- Taking revenge
If your marriage ended in an unfortunate way, you might be tempted to take revenge on your spouse. Whether it’s selling their important belongings or not being honest with your finances, these actions may harm you or your children. The court may see these acts of your as manipulation on your divorce and finances, and you may end up getting penalties.
- Not considering your children
Separation and divorce is a complicated process. Many couples make mistakes by not looking at the big picture when going through a divorce. Do not let your children be the victims. Put their best interest first, and everything will be better off in the long run.
- Not hiring a lawyer
While you can represent yourself and not hiring a lawyer can be an option when filing for a divorce, it can turn the process into a long and exhausting experience. Having a certified family lawyers penrith to represent your case can help you come up a resolution sooner. Also, having a lawyer will ensure that everything is done legally and accurately. Your lawyer can also advise you to explore other options and assist you with to reach a fair settlement. Divorce is a complicated and confusing process, so hiring an experienced divorce lawyer can guide you better through the whole process.
- Ignoring your physical and mental health
Dealing with a divorce can be physically and mentally exhausting. When you are under a lot of stress, your immune system may be affected, and you are prone to get sick. Thus, it is important to take good care of yourself so you can still maintain a high quality of life even when going through a separation. Taking care of yourself is even more important if you have children because you can also take care of them if you take care of yourself.
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