No one wants to think about filing for divorce, but it’s a reality that many of us face. Even if you’re familiar with the legal process and have read all the books and watched all the videos on filing for divorce, there are still common mistakes that people make when going through this challenging process. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common mistakes people make when filing for either a contested divorce or a cheap uncontested divorce and what steps you can take to avoid making them.
Thinking That You Can Do It All On Your Own
It’s natural to want to save money by attempting to file for divorce on your own. However, this is often a mistake as small errors in paperwork or missing important details can cause costly delays and even more expense down the line. While DIY divorce kits may seem like a simple and cost-effective option, they typically don’t provide you with enough legal guidance or access to sufficient resources. If you’re considering filing for divorce without an attorney, be sure to do plenty of research beforehand so that you know exactly what needs to be done in order to complete the process legally and correctly.
Not Understanding Your Rights
One of the most common mistakes people make when filing for divorce is not understanding their rights or fully researching their state’s laws before moving forward with proceedings. Make sure you understand what rights you have both during and after your marriage has ended in order to ensure that everything is completed legally and properly. Speaking with an experienced lawyer familiar with your state’s laws will help ensure that all potential problems are identified early on so that your best interests are being considered throughout the whole process.
Neglecting Important Financial Tasks
Even if finances weren’t a factor between yourself and your spouse while married, it’s important to remember that they become very relevant when it comes time to file for divorce. When filing paperwork, certain financial documents must be included such as tax returns, bank statements, income records and any other documents regarding assets or debts accumulated throughout the marriage. Failing to include these documents could lead to costly delays in processing time as well as complications during settlement negotiations once court proceedings begin. It’s always best practice to keep updated records of all financial information so that everything is readily available should it become necessary during any part of the proceedings.
Ignoring Potential Tax Implications
Another mistake commonly made by those filing for divorce is neglecting potential tax implications associated with dissolving a marriage. Tax implications vary from state-to-state so speaking with an experienced lawyer would be beneficial here as well. Additionally, going over past tax returns (as mentioned previously) can help identify potential issues which need addressing prior to any proceeding moving forward in court or settlement negotiations taking place outside of court (such as mediation). Taking care of taxes ahead of time will help avoid any surprises later on down the road both during and after your divorce has been finalized!
Not Planning For The Future
Finally – although it may seem difficult at times – planning ahead is key when approaching life after your divorce has been settled in court or through mediation/arbitration outside of court settings. Making plans such as creating a budget outlining monthly expenses vs income can help create structure during this difficult transition period reminiscent of times prior entering into marriage (if single) or even back before having children (if applicable). Being proactive in creating plans now – even if they just involve small steps taken each day – will benefit you greatly down the line once everything settles into an ‘after-divorce’ routine!
Filing for separation from a spouse isn’t easy by any means; however understanding some basic tips upfront can help minimize potential pitfalls associated with navigating through this challenging process both financially & emotionally speaking! Whether going through court proceedings or settling matters via arbitration/mediation outside of court settings – being aware & prepared will go a long way towards ensuring successful outcomes!