PacisLexis Family Law
What not to do during divorce or separation
Common mistakes to avoid during divorce proceedings
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Financial mistakes to avoid
Mistakes to Avoid with Children
Mistakes to Avoid Within the Couple
Proceedings Mistakes to Avoid
PacisLexis Family Law
What not to do during divorce or separation
Divorce or separation can be emotionally and legally complex, making it easy to fall into common traps.
From financial missteps to parenting disputes, and procedural oversights, such mistakes can have long-term consequences.
Whether your divorce involves local or cross-border challenges, understanding these errors can save time, money, and stress.
It’s important to stay level-headed, gather the right information, and make informed choices to protect your future.
Whether you’re dealing with a difficult spouse or navigating complex legal issues, having the right strategy is essential.
Schedule a consultation with our lawyer before making any decisions.
What not to do during divorce or separation
Financial mistakes to avoid
Should I hide assets during a divorce?
No!
Attempting to hide assets is illegal and can lead to severe penalties, including losing a larger share of the marital estate.
Is overspending during separation a mistake?
Yes!
Avoid unnecessary expenditures to ensure you’re financially prepared for post-divorce life and legal expenses.
Can I stop paying shared debts during a divorce?
No!
Neglecting joint debts can harm your credit score and affect court rulings on debt division.
Is it safe to close joint bank accounts immediately?
No!
Without mutual consent or court orders, closing accounts can be seen as bad faith and may complicate proceedings.
Should I avoid hiring financial experts?
No!
Professional advice can help you understand asset division, tax implications, and support payments.
Can I assume that property in my name stays mine?
No!
In many jurisdictions, including France, assets acquired during the marriage are subject to division.
Should I delay securing my financial documents?
No!
Obtain copies of bank statements, tax returns, and other relevant documents early in the process.
Can I ignore the impact of divorce on pensions and retirement?
No!
Overlooking these assets can result in significant financial loss.
Is failing to budget for life post-divorce a mistake?
Yes!
Preparing a realistic budget ensures financial stability after the divorce.
Should I sign financial agreements without understanding them?
No!
Always consult a lawyer before signing any documents to protect your rights.
What not to do during divorce or separation
Mistakes to avoid with children
Can I use my child to gain leverage in a divorce?
No!
Using children as pawns can harm them emotionally and negatively impact custody decisions.
Should I speak negatively about my ex to the children?
Learn more about parental alienation, read our article:
Is it okay to disrupt a child’s routine during a divorce?
No!
Stability is crucial for a child’s emotional well-being.
Can I deny my ex access to the children?
No!
Courts view such actions as parental alienation unless there is a legitimate safety concern.
Should I ignore my child’s emotional needs?
No!
Children often need counselling or support to process the divorce.
Can I avoid discussing the divorce with my child?
No!
Providing age-appropriate explanations helps children feel secure and understood.
Should I disregard school or extracurricular activities during the divorce?
No!
Maintaining these routines can provide much-needed consistency for children.
Is failing to co-parent effectively a mistake?
Yes!
Cooperation with your ex for the child’s benefit is essential, even if it’s difficult.
Can I assume my child will naturally recover?
No!
Be proactive in addressing signs of anxiety, depression, or withdrawal.
Should I ignore cross-border custody considerations?
No!
International custody disputes require careful legal handling to avoid complications.
What not to do during divorce or separation
Mistakes to avoid within the couple
Should I seek revenge against my ex?
No!
Actions driven by anger can harm your case and increase disputes.
Is withholding communication a good strategy?
No!
Open communication, where appropriate, can prevent misunderstandings and delays.
Can I ignore legal advice in favour of emotions?
No!
Relying on emotions rather than legal counsel can lead to poor decisions.
Should I assume my ex will act fairly?
No!
Protect your rights and interests by understanding legal obligations and options.
Is reconciling mid-divorce always advisable?
No!
Ensure reconciliation is genuine and not a tactic to delay proceedings or gain an advantage.
Can I continue to live together without clear boundaries?
No!
Ambiguous arrangements can lead to further conflict and complicate asset division.
Should I involve family members or friends in negotiations?
No!
Unqualified third parties can escalate tensions and misunderstandings.
Can I rely on verbal agreements during the divorce?
No!
Document all agreements to avoid disputes later.
Should I neglect self-care during the divorce?
No!
Focusing on mental and physical health helps you navigate the process effectively.
Is overlooking cultural differences in cross-border divorces a mistake?
Yes!
Cultural misunderstandings can complicate negotiations and custody arrangements.
What not to do during divorce or separation
Proceedings mistakes to avoid
Should I file for divorce without proper legal counsel?
Can I represent myself in a complicated divorce?
Is delaying responses to legal paperwork advisable?
Can I avoid disclosing all relevant information in court?
Should I assume court proceedings will be quick?
No!
Divorce cases, especially contested ones, often take months or years.
Is neglecting to document evidence a mistake?
Yes!
Keep records of communication, financial transactions, and relevant incidents.
Can I avoid mediation or alternative dispute resolution?
No!
Mediation can save time and reduce costs compared to a court battle.
To learn more about mediation you can read the following article:
Should I ignore international laws in cross-border divorces?
No!
Understanding jurisdictional rules is critical to protecting your interests abroad.
Is assuming the court will favour one gender a mistake?
Yes!
Modern courts prioritize fairness and the children’s best interests.
Can I rely solely on verbal promises during proceedings?
No!
Ensure all agreements are legally binding to avoid future disputes.
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PacisLexis Family Law
Facing a cross-border or complex divorce?
Avoid costly mistakes in your divorce. Contact our experienced family lawyers to secure your rights and protect your future.
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PacisLexis Family Law
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