Divorcing a spouse can be demanding even when uncontested. However, couples often become complacent and neglect to consider things that can go wrong. Even if you anticipate a relatively smooth divorce process, it is beneficial to know some of the most common errors and how to avoid them.
Holding on to the house when it doesn’t make financial sense
Commonly, people feel extremely sentimental and attached when it comes to the family home. The prospect of letting it go can be daunting. However, it is often fiscally unsound to cling to a property. Larger properties require a greater amount of upkeep. Additionally, mortgage payments, taxes and other financial obligations can soon mount. Fighting to hold on to your home could do more damage than good in the long run.
Making decisions simply to hurt your spouse
Divorce can be an intense process emotionally. As a result, partners are often motivated to make decisions based on revenge or spite. Making rash decisions will often place you in a worse position.
Settling quickly just to get it over with
Pushing a divorce through quickly and making an abrupt settlement can be a tempting prospect. Nobody relishes the thought of a drawn-out legal battle. However, making hasty decisions is typically not in your best interests.
Neglecting to adjust your budget
Being responsible for your own bills and living costs, rather than sharing them, can be a tricky adjustment. When contemplating your life after divorce, it is important that you budget as a single person.
Failure to disclose marital assets
Individuals have a legal obligation to disclose all assets and liabilities during divorce proceedings. Crucially, this includes assets that parties believe are not subject to division in a divorce. It is for the court to examine all assets and then determine whether they are subject to division. The intentional act of failing to disclose assets will be frowned upon by the court and can result in significant penalties. Even doing so accidentally can make the divorce process more challenging.
Getting to know your rights and obligations in a Florida divorce can make the process easier and is the best way to protect your interests.