One of the most important pieces of advice that can be shared during a divorce process is to consult with a family law attorney who specializes in divorce matters. Ultimately, whether you decide to retain an attorney to represent you is your choice; however, in order to make the most informed decisions, you need to know how to protect yourself in a divorce.
There are always steps to take to protect yourself during the divorce process. Each divorce is unique to a couple’s specific circumstances. In order to determine how to protect yourself in a divorce, you need to have an understanding of the divorce process and your rights.
Often people want to know, “how can a woman protect herself in a divorce” and “how can a man protect himself in a divorce?”
Sometimes the answer to those two questions is the same whether you are protecting yourself in a divorce against your wife or protecting yourself as a man. Certain behaviors should always be avoided during a divorce, such as badmouthing your spouse, hiding marital assets, incurring debt unilaterally and using social media as a platform to air your dirty laundry.
So how do you protect yourself in a divorce? If you have children, always make choices that are best for your children. Although it can be extraordinarily difficult at times to keep calm and avoid arguments, ultimately that is the best course of action, especially when children are involved.
Protecting yourself financially is one of the best ways to protect yourself in a divorce and to stay safe in the divorce process. Make sure that you have records of all of the financial information that will be relevant during the divorce process. Do your best to create a budget and stick to that budget so that you can make smart financial choices going forward. If you choose to retain an attorney, make sure that you do not make any financial long-term decisions without consulting with your attorney. Keep your records organized.
Make sure that you also take necessary non-legal steps so that you can protect yourself in divorce. Establish a support system, and if need be, consult with a therapist or mental health professional, that can help you navigate the circumstances.
Do not rush to make decisions and make sure that you have the information that you need when decisions need to be made. Do not make assumptions about the history of your marriage or about your life going forward. Make sure that you understand everything that is taking place during your divorce. Most cases reach a settlement at some point. Sometimes that happens early on in a case and sometimes it takes place after an extended period of litigation. If you reach a settlement, which is recommended, make sure you understand all of those terms. Be sure that you ask the questions that need to be asked so that once the divorce is finalized, you can move forward comfortably without any surprises that could have been avoided.
Here at DeTorres & DeGeorge, we pride ourselves on representing our clients zealously and compassionately. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and we can discuss with you how to protect yourself in a divorce.