When you’re going through a divorce, you’ll deal with a lot of feelings and have to make a lot of decisions to secure your future. Unfortunately, there are common mistakes people make during this emotionally charged time, with unintended consequences. That’s exactly why you should choose Smedley Law Group, because the firm specializes in family law and has the experience to understand your needs, knowing how overwhelming it can be to navigate legal issues involving your family.
Smedley Law Group focuses solely on family law, so they know how overwhelming it can be to navigate legal issues involving your family. The firm offers personalized attention and support, creating a safe and nurturing environment. Whether you’re working with its attorneys or support staff, you can trust these legal experts to get your optimal divorce settlement, ensuring your best interests are always the priority. They’ll give you the tools to take that courageous leap into your new life!
Here, the firm’s founder AllynMarie Smedley shares the five most common mistakes she sees during divorce proceedings.
!. Allowing Your Emotions to Get the Best of You
It’s understandable (and acceptable) for you to feel a range of emotions including rage, anger, sadness and frustration. The problem is when you let these emotions color your judgment as you make decisions. When you’re discussing a decision with your attorney, step away from intense feelings so logic and reason guide your decision-making. That way, you can be confident that you’re making choices in the best interests of you and your children. If necessary, seek out a counselor, therapist or clergyperson to help you sort out these emotions.
2. Not Obtaining the Counsel You Need During This Difficult Time
Even though people know they should hire an experienced attorney to represent them during a divorce, emotions and worries can lead people down the wrong path. Sometimes, people listen to friends’ “advice” on how to handle a divorce, when they actually don’t know enough about your situation. Our best advice is to hire an experienced family law attorney as soon as possible. If your goal is to avoid a long, contentious and expensive court battle, share that with your attorney.
A good advocate will learn about your unique situation and goals, and provide you with the best course of action. If you don’t want to go to court, for example, you can use alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation to draw up an amicable settlement with your ex. While we understand that money is a concern, the best money you’ll ever spend is to make sure your future is secure and that you’re informed of all your rights.
3. Having a Short-Sighted View of Your Financial Future
Many people realize that their lifestyle or income may not be the same right after a divorce. This can include paying spousal or child support, or receiving it. If you were a stay-at-home parent, you might need to get a job or go back to school for job training. Whatever your current situation, you need a clear understanding of what you need to do to secure your future. Take the time to consider the advice you’re receiving, especially from your attorney and financial advisor, as they’re there for the sole benefit of supporting you through this difficult time and making sure you get what’s best for you.
4. Lack of Communication and Honesty With Your Attorney
Communication is so important when you’re working with your attorney. For you to get the settlement you’re looking for, transparency is 100% necessary, especially if there are children involved. You need to be open and honest from your first consultation, even if the truth may be personally embarrassing.
Remember, your attorney is a professional who’s seen and heard just about everything in their legal career.
5. Having Unrealistic Expectations for Your Outcome
Many people go into their divorce angry and wanting to “take it all” from their ex. A good attorney knows the laws and court system in New Jersey and tells you what’s reasonable for an outcome in your situation. Also, an experienced family law attorney will advise you on the easiest, most affordable way to settle your divorce, rather than opting for protracted, contentious, expensive litigation in court.
It’s terribly easy to make a mistake during a divorce. But these mistakes can ultimately cost you. Working with the team at Smedley Law Group ensures that you don’t fall into these pitfalls. Schedule your consultation with them today!
Smedley Law Group
750 Cooper Street | Woodbury
(856) 251-0800
SmedleyLawGroup.com
Published (and copyrighted) in Suburban Family Magazine, Volume 13, Issue 13.
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