Going through a divorce is a tough time, and it is understandable if you feel lost or overwhelmed during the early stages. You could have been blind-sided by the divorce, only learning of it after your separated partner has gotten legal advice and begun the proceedings. This list of do’s and don’ts should help you react in the right way and prepare yourself for the process.
Do Get Professional Help
Divorces can be complicated legal processes, even if things look simple and you and your now ex-partner are on amicable terms. Things can change quickly and often do. For added peace of mind and to protect yourself in the future, always hire divorce lawyers with experience in family law. Harrogate Family Law are experts in divorce proceedings and are a compassionate legal firm that will support you throughout the process. Always look for divorce lawyers that offer help and advice as well as legal representation.
Do Not Lose Your Composure
A divorce is a difficult experience for both parties, and the events that led to the decision to dissolve the marriage can often cause resentment. The process itself can be very frustrating and create friction between ex-partners even if it had begun amicably. Never lose your composure with your previous partner, either during official proceedings or outside of the legal process. If you are having difficulty communicating without venting your frustrations, leave all correspondence to your lawyers and try to avoid any confrontations.
Do Put Children First
If you are going through a divorce after a marriage that produced children you should always put their needs first and maintain amicable relations with their other parent. Their lives are going to be greatly affected by the divorce, but they will need both parents throughout their future. Children are a connection between you that will last long after the divorce and you should bear this in mind as you proceed. When both parties approach their divorce putting their children’s needs first the process runs much more smoothly and many difficult issues can be avoided.
Do Be Honest
In some divorces, people can attempt to hide or conceal their finances or lie about the circumstances that led to the divorce. This can waste a lot of time for your lawyer, which wastes your money too, and judges do not look kindly on people who try to pull the wool over their eyes. Hiding assets or avoiding taking responsibility for any actions you have taken can have a negative effect on your divorce resolution that can last for years.
Do Not Have Unreasonable Expectations
When it comes to custody and financial support, many people begin their divorce proceedings with unreasonable expectations. Some look at the experiences that friends and family have had previously and expect their divorce to follow a similar pattern, but each divorce is unique. Work with your lawyer to discuss reasonable resolutions to financial obligations and child custody. Do not focus on finances, and instead focus on finding solutions that will allow you both to thrive after the divorce is complete.
This guide should help you to get through your divorce proceedings. It is possible to go through an amicable divorce with an ex-partner and successfully co-parent your children as long as both sides maintain their composure and work with the court to find a sensible resolution to the process.