One of the worst things you can do when preparing to divorce is to make assumptions. While your relationship may have begun on feelings and promises, you need to turn to facts and figures when it ends.
Knowledge is power in a divorce, and a lack of knowledge about matters will play into your spouse’s hands.
A divorce must follow specific rules
Each state has laws regarding property division, child custody, support payments and so on. Yet, there is flexibility within those rules, which your spouse may take advantage of if you are ill-prepared. Here are three mistakes to avoid when ending your marriage:
- Assuming your partner will be honest: If you do not have an in-depth knowledge of your finances, now is the time to learn. There is help available if you need it. Spouses can sometimes conceal or fail to disclose assets to avoid giving you a share in the divorce.
- Assuming you will get enough to live on: Your partner has a good income, so you may believe you will get a divorce settlement which allows you to live in the style you are used to. Yet, you only have to look at the news to see how hard some people will fight to retain their wealth. Even if you get a reasonable initial divorce settlement, if your spouse remarries, they may come under pressure from their new spouse to reduce how much you get.
- Assuming your kids are fine: Children may not tell you what is going on inside their heads. That could be because they are embarrassed or do not want to trouble you further. Or it could be because they do not understand what they feel or cannot express it. As a divorcing parent, you need to sit and talk with your child and find out how the situation affects them. Remember that friends, family members, of professionals can all help.
The better informed you are, the better your chances of moving on with ease after your marriage ends. There is a lot to understand when you divorce, so it is crucial to have help to ensure you consider everything.
