Divorce is never easy. The legal, emotional, and financial challenges involved can quickly become overwhelming. Although every divorce is different, certain common mistakes can make the process harder and more costly than necessary.

Whether you’re considering a divorce or are already in the middle of one, understanding what to avoid can protect your rights and bring you peace of mind.

Working with an experienced divorce attorney can help you make informed decisions from the start. Here are some of the most common mistakes people make during a divorce and how to steer clear of them.

Letting Emotions Drive Decisions

Divorce can bring feelings of anger, sadness, and frustration. While these emotions are natural, making legal or financial decisions based on them can lead to long-term regrets. Some people give away property hastily to “end things quickly,” while others argue over minor assets out of spite.

The key is to stay focused on your long-term goals. Take a step back and let your divorce attorney in Utah County provide objective guidance. Rational decisions, even in emotional times, lead to better outcomes.

Failing to Fully Understand Finances

A common mistake in divorce is not fully understanding the couple’s finances, including all income, debts, retirement accounts, properties, and even hidden assets. Many people mistakenly trust their spouse to “do the right thing” and later find they didn’t receive their fair share. It’s crucial to gather all financial documents early and account for everything.

Courts require complete financial transparency, and failing to disclose assets can harm your credibility. With legal guidance, you can protect your financial future from oversight or dishonesty.

Overlooking the Impact on Children

Divorce doesn’t just affect the spouses—it deeply impacts the children involved. Some of the most damaging mistakes include using children as leverage or speaking negatively about the other parent in front of them. Since courts prioritize the child’s best interests, it’s vital to maintain a cooperative co-parenting relationship.

Develop a parenting plan that puts your child’s emotional well-being first and avoids turning custody into a battle. An attorney can help you create a fair plan that protects your child’s needs and works for everyone.

Ignoring Legal Advice

Some people believe they can manage their divorce without a lawyer, especially in seemingly straightforward or uncontested cases. However, this “DIY” approach often leads to missed deadlines, incorrect filings, or unfair settlements.

Even if you and your spouse agree on most things, having a lawyer review your agreement ensures nothing is overlooked. The legal system has specific rules, and a single misstep can delay your case or create future problems. Legal guidance protects your interests and helps you avoid costly errors you might not anticipate.

Hiding or Misrepresenting Information

Hiding income, underreporting assets, or concealing property during a divorce is a serious mistake. This unethical behavior can damage your credibility and lead to court penalties if discovered. Full financial disclosure isn’t just encouraged—it’s required.

Judges take transparency very seriously, and any dishonesty can significantly harm your case, especially regarding asset division or custody. Be upfront with your lawyer so they can guide you through difficult disclosures appropriately.

Making Big Life Changes Too Soon

During a divorce, it’s common to make quick decisions like moving out of the marital home, quitting a job, or starting a new relationship. However, these choices can have unexpected impacts on your case. For instance, leaving the family home might influence property division or child custody arrangements.

Quitting a job could complicate support agreements, and starting a new relationship too soon might create tension that disrupts negotiations. Before making significant changes, consult your legal advisor to understand the potential consequences.

Not Considering the Long-Term Picture

Focusing only on immediate wins, like keeping the house or getting sole custody, can create long-term problems. For example, a home comes with mortgage payments and maintenance costs you might not be able to afford alone. Similarly, gaining full custody without adequate support could leave you emotionally and financially drained. It’s crucial to work with your attorney to consider the big picture.

Think about what your life will look like one, five, and ten years from now. The decisions made during a divorce have lasting effects, making long-term planning essential.

Conclusion

Divorce is complex, but avoiding common mistakes can make the process smoother. Whether you’re focused on financial security, custody, or your legal rights, the support of a trusted divorce attorney is invaluable. With the right legal guidance, you can make informed decisions that protect your future and minimize stress.