Avoid These 5 Pitfalls to Ease the New York Divorce Process
A Ne York divorce can be stressful and agonizing for anyone, so you’re not alone if you’re feeling emotionally drained as you go through the process. In fact, mental health editors at Prevention magazine report that many people will experience health issues ranging from anxiety and depression to weight changes and substance abuse. However, it’s one thing to know about how divorce can lead to health and well-being issues; it’s another to do something about it. One strategy to prevent divorce from taking over your life is to avoid some of the most common mistakes soon-to-be-ex-spouses make in their approach to the proceedings.
As such, just as you always trust medical issues to a healthcare provider, you should rely upon a New York divorce lawyer to help you avoid major pitfalls throughout the process. You can also do your part to stop yourself if you sense that you’re making the following mistakes in divorce.
Mistake #1 – Not Knowing the Big Financial Picture
Two of the primary issues in a divorce case – asset division and spousal support – are directly related to your financial situation, both individually and as a couple. Getting caught off-guard by your circumstances puts you in a poor position going forward, so do some investigation. Evaluate your assets, debts, and other financial matters, and run your credit score through such sites as www.CreditKarma.com get an overview of where you stand.
Mistake #2 – Lack of Preparation
Divorce involves a significant amount of paperwork, much of which is either in your possession or under your control. As such, you need to get organized to prepare for filing or receiving court documents. Plus, you’ll be living on one salary and in charge of supporting your household – even if you do receive some alimony and child support during the process. That means you should start saving appropriately.
Mistake #3 – Letting Emotions Get in the Way
It’s difficult to keep your anger, sadness, or other emotions out of divorce, but it’s helpful to look at the process as a business matter. Don’t allow your feelings to take over and adversely affect your interests. Keep your divorce separate from other aspects of your life, and allow your attorney to handle disputes.
Mistake #4 – Bringing Children into the Fray
New York law requires you to address custody and support of minor children in divorce, and they may be involved in the proceedings under certain circumstances. However, it’s best to keep them out of the process to the greatest extent possible. Avoid turning children against their other parent in an attempt to gain an advantage in court.
Mistake #5 – Refusing to Negotiate
Some parties approach divorce as a win-loss scenario, where the victory is receiving as many assets as possible, being granted alimony, and getting custody of children. Instead of trying to win, you might consider whether there are certain areas where you can reach a compromise. There are multiple advantages of resolving divorce through marital settlement agreements, especially since you maintain control over the process rather than allowing strict divorce laws to take over.
An Experienced New York Divorce Attorney Will Help You Avoid Pitfalls
When you retain a skilled lawyer to handle your New York divorce, you’re in a better position to steer clear of the mistakes that can lead to protracted litigation and negative parent-child relationships. An attorney can guide you through the divorce process, and will assist in negotiating agreements to achieve your goals and serve your interests. To learn more about how we can help, please call The Mandel Law Firm at (646) 770-3868 or visit us online. We’re happy to schedule a consultation at our Manhattan office to learn more about your circumstances.
