Divorce Dos & Don'ts

Divorce is tough. Tempers run high, and every decision seems to be more stressful than the last. It's only human to find yourself reacting emotionally, but it's important to keep your head straight - your actions now can affect your outcome from the divorce.

The Dos

Do be reasonable and cooperate as much as possible with your soon-to-be-ex. Reasonable compromise yields quicker and easier results in divorce cases.

Do support your children through this process. It's even tougher on them than on you - don't make them pick sides.

Do let your spouse know when and where you will spend time with your kids while you work out permanent custody arrangements. Your spouse might think you've made a run for the border - and if your soon-to-be-ex has to ask the police to track you down, that won't look good during custody or visitation hearings.

Do fully disclose all your assets and property. A court can throw out a divorce decree based on financial deception, putting you back in court years after you thought everything was final.

Do ask your attorney about things you don't understand. Your attorney works for you, and should help you understand every part of the divorce process.

The Don'ts

Don't make big plans to take a job in another state or move out of the country until your divorce is final. Your new life could interfere with getting your divorce finalized.

Don't violate any temporary custody or visitation arrangements. It could make it tougher for you to get the custody or visitation rights you prefer.

Don't "give away" property to friends or relatives and arrange to get it back later. Hiding property can mean your spouse can take you back to court to settle those assets.

Don't go it alone. Divorce is complicated, and an attorney can make sure that your interests are protected.

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