Divorces are exceedingly common in the U.S. In fact, in 2019, almost a million couples decided to call it quits. While you probably know at least one person who has gone through a divorce, you may have little experience ending a marriage yourself.
Even under ideal circumstances, divorce can be difficult for anyone. Still, you do not want to complicate the end of your marriage needlessly. Here are three common divorce mistakes you should try to avoid.
1. Letting your emotions control your actions
If your spouse was unfaithful or uncaring, it may be tempting to use your divorce to make his or her life miserable. Doing so, though, could be a mistake. After all, you probably want to make decisions that are in your personal, legal and financial interests rather than letting your desire for revenge or retribution control your actions.
2. Blindly agreeing to your spouse’s terms
In many cases, it is advisable to settle a divorce without going through a protracted and costly court battle. Still, even if you are ready to move on with your life, blindly agreeing to your spouse’s terms may not make much sense. Remember, Florida law entitles you to an equitable share of the marital estate, so you may need to fight for what you deserve.
3. Believing your spouse’s financial disclosures
Trust but verify is a useful mantra in divorce proceedings. When your spouse makes his or her financial disclosures, you may want to check them carefully. If your spouse hides assets in the lead-up to your divorce, you may need to hire a forensic accountant to find missing marital wealth.
Because even seemingly simple divorces can become complex without much notice, it is critical to understand both your rights and your legal options. Ultimately, by obtaining competent legal counsel, you likely improve your chances of reaching the outcome you want.