While the legal process of divorce is designed to ensure both parties are treated fairly, it can sometimes feel like a stressful strategy game. This process will feel less daunting if you prepare with your attorney and adopt a practical and focused mindset. If you’re navigating a divorce, here are a few common mistakes to avoid to achieve a more desirable outcome.

5 Divorce Mistakes to Avoid

1. Taking Third-Party Advice

As you go through a divorce, your friends and family may have a lot of thoughts about how you should proceed. They may mean well, but their suggestions might be uninformed or self-serving. Keep your mind on track by sticking to the advice of a reputable and skilled legal professional.

2. Getting the Wrong Attorney

Don’t select just any attorney for the job. Research your options and choose a professional who specializes in family law with a good reputation to make sure your interests are protected. If there are unique factors to your case—such as dividing a family-owned business or determining child custody—make sure that your lawyer is well-versed in these matters as well.

3. Making Requests as Revenge

The end of a marriage can be painful, but building your divorce strategy around revenge is not beneficial to your emotional or financial well-being. Making revenge-based demands are often more difficult to argue, increasing the time and money you have to spend in the process. Instead, work with your attorney to determine which outcomes seem fair and why so they can make a just and compelling case on your behalf.

4. Failing to Fully Document Finances

From investments to tax documents, there are many important financial records that you’ll want to discuss with your attorney. By presenting a full list of your assets and responsibilities, your lawyer will be able to make a more convincing argument as to why you deserve certain resources. If not, there’s a good chance that your ex-spouse may be able to acquire them without much challenge.

5. Being Set on a Trial

Not all divorce cases have to end up in court. Even if you aren’t on the same page with your ex, you can use divorce mediation as a way to come to a compromise. In this approach, an unbiased mediator works with both parties and their attorneys to make fair and balanced decisions. For many, mediation can save a lot of time, money, and stress.

Whether you’re concerned about asset division or child custody, Ferguson Hayes Hawkins & DeMay PLLC is here to simplify your divorce as much as possible. This Concord, NC firm is well-versed in divorce proceedings and how to handle them efficiently and fairly. Their focus is on their client’s satisfaction, working with you one-on-one to ensure you feel confident about each step to keep your voice heard. Visit this law office online to learn more about their services or call (704) 788-3211 to schedule a free consultation.