Making the decision to get divorced can be stressful at best. This is why many couples decide to separate before filing for divorce. Separation lets them make sure that filing for divorce is the right choice and ensures that neither of you can or is interested in reconciling your differences. But there are a few things you’ll want to avoid doing while you’re separated. Your New Jersey divorce lawyer explains.
Don’t Vent About Your Spouse on Social Media
These days, seemingly everyone is on social media, and with such a large group of people to talk to, it can be tempting to vent about your spouse on sites like Facebook, X, and Instagram. But just because you can doesn’t mean you should. When you vent about your spouse on social media, those posts could be used against you in court. Instead, consider talking to a close friend or family member or schedule an appointment with a therapist who can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Avoid Rushing to Move Out
Though you can move out of your shared home as soon as you make the decision to separate, doing so could hurt your finances in the long run. By moving out, you could end up saddled with an overly high rent payment or get stuck in a home that you’re not wild about. If you can, try to move into a spare bedroom and stay in the home you share with your spouse during your separation. This will save you both money in the long run. And if you absolutely need to get out of your shared home, consider moving in with a friend or family member first.
Don’t Dramatically Increase Your Spending
Shopping can make you feel better in the short term, but dramatically increasing the amount of money you’re spending could hurt your divorce settlement and the way the court divides your assets. The court may view your spending as a dissipation of joint assets and could reduce your settlement as a result. Instead of shopping, look for other ways to make yourself feel better and preserve your mental health. Join a gym, go for walks, make standing coffee dates with friends, or start meditating. There are many free or low-cost alternatives that can help you stay centered and reduce the amount of stress you’re under.
Don’t Try to Get Even With Your Spouse
Though many couples grow apart and can amicably end their marriages without dealing with disagreements or disputes, many others file for divorce without being in full agreement. If you’re one of them, try not to punish your spouse or find ways to get even with them for acting in a way that brought about the divorce.
Remember, you’re both human. And if you spend your time trying to get even with your spouse, you’ll likely only hurt yourself and could end up giving your spouse grounds to petition for a larger settlement during the divorce proceedings.
Don’t Take Advice From Friends and Family Blindly
Your friends and family will likely want to help you navigate your way through your divorce. While their advice may be well-meaning, try not to take it without understanding how their advice could impact your case and your settlement. Taking the wrong advice could hurt your case. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or in need of advice, speak with your New Jersey divorce lawyer. They’ll be familiar with the ins and outs of your case and can provide you with truly beneficial advice.
Speak With a New Jersey Divorce Lawyer
If you and your spouse are considering separating or you’re ready to file for divorce, speak with an experienced New Jersey divorce lawyer at Carvajal Law. Our team will represent your case and help you navigate the divorce process with confidence. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.