Divorce is a challenging process to undergo. Often the parties to a divorce experience anger, guilt, sadness, and loneliness. Although these emotions are common, they may lead a party to make mistakes that can potentially have long-lasting effects on that party’s life financially and emotionally. Below are common mistakes made by individuals going through the divorce process and tips on avoiding these pitfalls.

Don’t Act Out of Anger, Revenge, or Guilt

It is acceptable to experience these emotions and a barrage of other emotions during your divorce. However, acting based on these emotions in your divorce is not advisable. Suppose you are acting out of emotion rather than rational reasoning; it may lead you to make decisions in your divorce that can negatively impact you later. Seeking an attorney will help ensure that you make sound decisions regarding your divorce.

Failing to Communicate with Your Spouse

Often the best settlement agreements are between spouses who are willing and able to communicate with each other about what they desire. Maintaining an open line of communication with your spouse during your divorce and settlement negotiations may save you the cost of a lengthy and prolonged court battle.

Not Updating Your Will or Estate Plan

In many states, the occurrence of significant life events invalidates any previously executed wills. Thus, it is crucial to revise your will or estate plan upon your divorce. This will ensure that your true wishes are fulfilled upon your death, especially if you decide to remarry.

Don’t Use Your Children as Pawns

Divorce affects children just as much, if not more, than adults. Don’t force your children to be intermediaries between you and your spouse. Doing so may make your child resent you, your spouse, or both of you, potentially causing permanent damage to your relationship with your child.

Don’t Agree to a One-Sided Settlement Agreement

Regardless of whether you or your spouse are the ones who initiated the divorce action, do not make or accept a one-sided settlement agreement. Although it may seem tempting to end the process as quickly as possible, signing the first agreement you are presented with will make it difficult, if not impossible, to change the agreement later.

Not Obtaining Quality Legal Advice

Although you may have friends or family members who have gone through the divorce process, they are not attorneys. Do not take legal advice from anyone other than an attorney committed to your case. Divorces are complicated matters concerning the division of financial assets and children’s futures. Therefore, only qualified, and competent legal professionals can effectively advise you regarding your rights and responsibilities during the divorce process.

New Jersey divorce procedures are complex and trying to navigate them without the help of an experienced family lawyer can be frustrating. If you have questions about divorce, contact The GC Law Firm today. Our knowledgeable and compassionate family law attorneys will help guide you every step of the way.