Mastering the Divorce Journey: 10 Key Steps and Missteps to Avoid

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Divorce is hard for everyone concerned. Little can be done to lessen the pain of divorce, but the parties involved can make the journey a little easier. Having practiced Family Law for over 40 years, we have seen it all.

Here are 10 tips that we advise our clients to adopt:

The Do’s:

  1. Pursue Constructive Communication: Aim for amicable discussions with your soon-to-be-ex. Being reasonable and compromising can expedite the divorce process, saving both time and money. Remember, the funds saved can be set aside for your children’s educational future.
  2. Prioritize Your Children: As you navigate this challenging phase, ensure your children’s emotional and financial well-being. They’re probably feeling the strain even more than you. Abstain from making them choose sides. As their parents, it’s your duty to stand by them, providing consistent emotional and financial support from the moment of separation. Consult your attorney to understand an appropriate interim support amount, which can be refined later based on more precise details.
  3. Keep Communication Lines Open About Kids: While setting permanent custody arrangements, always inform your spouse about your plans with your children. Both parents should be transparent about the children’s health, education, and overall well-being. Failing to communicate might work against you in court, so always maintain a responsible and considerate approach.
  4. Full Financial Transparency is Key: Honesty about your financial status is crucial. Concealing assets or property can lead to the annulment of a divorce decree. Be forthright with your financial affidavit to prevent potential future legal troubles.
  5. Lean on Your Attorney: Your attorney is there to guide and support you. Don’t hesitate to ask them any questions to ensure you comprehend every stage of the divorce process.

The Don’ts:

  1. Avoid Drastic Life Changes: Steer clear of significant life decisions like entering a new relationship, relocating, or switching jobs during the divorce proceedings. Such actions could complicate and prolong the divorce process.
  2. Respect Temporary Agreements: Abide by any interim custody agreements or court orders. Not adhering to these can jeopardize your chances of securing favorable time-sharing rights.
  3. No Hidden Assets: Refrain from transferring assets to acquaintances with plans to reclaim them later. Transparency is vital. Concealing assets can tarnish your reputation in court and may lead to revisiting legal discussions in the future.
  4. Stay Off Social Media: This is not the time to share your personal feelings with your online friends. Read here to learn how this can cause a world of pain.
  5. Seek Professional Help: Navigating a divorce is intricate. Build a network of professionals to guide you and your children through this challenging time. Rely on a competent attorney to safeguard your interests, especially when it comes to ensuring the best for your children. The HelpGuide.org wrote an article on Children and Divorce that you can read here. 

An experienced family law attorney can help navigate the divorce and custody process, achieving the optimal results for you and your family.

Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti, P.A. has been representing families for over 40 years in Miami-DadeBroward, and 25 years in Islamorada and Key West.

Call our experienced Family Lawyers, Text us at 305-653-1515, email us at [email protected] or call our office 24/7 at 305-653-555 to review all your Divorce, Separation, Custody, Paternity, Domestic Violence, and of course Parenting options.

Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti. Experience and Results Matter.