Going through a divorce can be a long, emotionally complex matter. The process is often overwhelming and requires many things for both spouses. While people may not usually think about it, their behavior and actions throughout a divorce is one of the most important things to remember. This is because they have the potential to impact the outcome of the proceedings. In order to be aware of the proper and improper ways to act during this time, the Law Offices of Susan A. Kassel put together a list of the “do’s and don’ts” of divorce. Continue reading below to learn more and contact our firm for guidance during this time.
What Should I Do?
In order to achieve the desired outcome of your divorce proceedings, there are certain things you can do to help the process. This can include the following:
- Change passwords to all email accounts and social media sites
- Disclose all assets and liabilities when filling out your inventory
- Be aware of the household budget and expenses
- Collect your last two tax returns, real estate deeds, and mortgage documents
- Examine your credit history and get a credit report
- Know the total balance on any joint checking and savings bank accounts
- Know the balance on your retirement plans, 401(k), pension plan, etc.
- Get a copy of your spouse’s last two paycheck stubs
- Seek out a CPA or accountant to help review the tax implications of your divorce
- Seek help for any alcohol or illegal substance abuse
- Keep a journal to document the exchange and pick up of any children you have
- Keep any copies of money paid to your spouse
- Be sure to pay your child support on time
- Maintain good co-parenting practices with your spouse
- Comply with any court-ordered injunctions and restrictions
What Should I Not Do?
On the other hand, there are also actions that you should avoid so that you do not harm the outcome of the divorce proceedings. This can include the following:
- Keep things from your attorney
- Post anything on social media that can be used against you
- Post information regarding your divorce on social media
- Withhold visitation from your spouse for their failure to make child support payments
- Move out of state with your children
- Start another romantic relationship during the proceedings
- Bring a new significant other around your children or the court hearings
- Get pregnant or get anyone pregnant
- Remove children from their current school
- Buy real estate or any extravagant items while the divorce is pending
- Sell property without the court’s permission
- Send mean or negative emails, texts, messages, etc. to your spouse
- Increase your debt while the divorce is pending
- Give large contributions to anyone during the proceedings
- Discuss the case with your children or use them as intermediaries
- Criticize your spouse in front of your children
Contact our Firm
Matters of divorce and family law should be navigated with the guidance of an experienced attorney. If you need strong legal representation regarding matters of divorce, family law, and estate law, contact the Law Offices of Susan A. Kassel, P.C. to schedule a consultation today.
