Divorce is just like anything else, there are things you can do to help your case and things you can do to hurt it. The problem is most people going through a divorce are under so much stress that they react emotionally and that is almost always going to hurt your case. We know how hard the process can be on our clients so we came up with these simple guidelines to help you through your divorce.
The Dos of 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 what your priorities are before you go to see an attorney.
The Don’ts of 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 berate your spouse where your children can hear and if they are in the home, assume they can hear.
- 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 their safety, never deny your children 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.