Divorce is a life-altering experience that brings with it emotional, financial, and legal challenges. Whether amicable or contentious, how you approach the proceedings can significantly impact the outcome and your future well-being. Here’s a guide on the key do’s and don’ts to help you navigate this process.
Do’s
- Prioritise self-care – Divorce can be mentally and emotionally draining. Prioritise self-care by seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist. Exercise, eat well, and take time to process your emotions. Maintaining your well-being is crucial to making sound decisions during this difficult period.
- Gather financial documentation – Start collating your financial documents, including bank statements, tax returns, credit card statements, property valuations, and pension totals. Having these documents organised will help you and your solicitor assess your financial situation and negotiate more effectively.
- Seek legal advice early – Meet with a family solicitor as soon as you consider divorce. Early legal advice can help you understand your rights, the process, and potential outcomes. A family solicitor can also help you avoid mistakes that could negatively impact your case.
- Communicate respectfully – If possible, keep communication with your spouse civil and respectful. Hostile exchanges can escalate conflicts, making the divorce process more difficult and costly. Effective communication can lead to a more amicable settlement and smoother proceedings.
- Consider mediation – Mediation can be a less adversarial approach to divorce. A neutral third party helps facilitate negotiations between you and your spouse, aiming for a mutually agreeable settlement. Mediation can save time, money, and emotional energy compared to a court battle.
- Focus on the big picture – Identify your priorities early in the process and stay focused on what truly matters—whether it’s your children, financial security, or your peace of mind. Avoid getting bogged down in minor disputes that could prolong the divorce and increase costs.
Don’ts
- Don’t make impulsive decisions – Divorce is an emotional time, but it’s essential to avoid making hasty decisions out of anger, hurt, or spite. Impulsive actions, like selling shared assets or quitting your job, can have long-term negative consequences. Take time to think through major decisions with the guidance of your solicitor.
- Don’t involve your children in adult issues – As difficult as it may be, keep your children out of the conflict. Avoid speaking negatively about your spouse in front of them or using them as messengers. Focus on their emotional needs and ensure they feel loved and supported by both parents.
- Don’t hide assets – Transparency is critical in divorce proceedings. Attempting to hide assets or income can backfire. Be honest about your finances to ensure a fair and equitable division of property and assets.
- Don’t ignore court orders – Complying with court orders is not optional. Ignoring them can lead to serious legal consequences. If you disagree with an order, work with your solicitor to challenge it legally.
- Don’t neglect your financial future – Divorce can have a lasting impact on your financial health. Don’t neglect to plan for your post-divorce finances. Create a budget, understand the long-term implications, and consider working with a financial planner to secure your financial future.
- Don’t let emotions drive negotiations – While emotions are an inevitable part of divorce, letting them drive your decisions can lead to regret. Strive to approach negotiations pragmatically, focusing on fair outcomes rather than retribution or emotional satisfaction.
Divorce is never easy, but by following these do’s and don’ts, you can navigate the process more effectively. Remember, the goal is to reach a resolution that allows you to move forward with your life in a positive direction. Surround yourself with the right support, approach the situation with care, and take steps that protect your interests both now and in the future.
If you are looking into starting divorce proceedings, or would like to discuss your case with a friendly family solicitor, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly and professional Family Team on 01245 228116, by email at familyenq@gepp.co.uk or visit our contact us page.