What Can You Not Do During a Divorce?

What Can You Not Do During a Divorce? The divorce process can seem lengthy. While you wait for the completion of the divorce, it can sometimes feel like your life is on hold. While you may be tempted to make certain changes during this time, it is best to avoid taking certain steps that could hurt your case. Continue reading to find out what you can’t do during a divorce.

What Not to Do During a Divorce

The specific steps you should take, or avoid, during a divorce will depend on the details of your case. However, in general, it is best to avoid the following:

Avoid draining bank accounts: Retail therapy or vacationing might seem like a good idea right now, but it could lead to your intentions being questioned. If it looks like you’re intentionally trying to reduce your assets, the court could require you to pay back any funds that you took.
Avoiding moving funds between bank accounts: Even moving funds between bank accounts can be problematic. It can look like you’re trying to hide assets.
Avoid taking out loans: Taking out a loan while you are married can lead to problems as you try to figure out who is responsible for what. Courts do not often look favorably on this.
Avoid cashing checks in the spouse’s name: When you were married, it may not seem like a big deal to cash a check in your spouse’s name, since you share the funds anyways. However, when you are in the process of a divorce, it can look like you’re trying to take, or hide, these funds from your spouse.
Avoid use of social media: You may turn to your social media account to vent to friends and family. However, this can be a mistake. Your spouse’s legal team can use anything you post on your accounts, against you in the divorce.
Avoid starting another relationship: It may be tempting to start another relationship especially if yours has been over for a while. But, relationships, especially if you move fast and lead to a child, or you want to get married, can confuse things. This could also affect any child custody cases.
Avoid harassments or threats: Harassing your spouse or making threats can also be used against you. In the same idea, if your ex-spouse is harassing you with text messages and phone calls, it is also a good idea to keep a physical record of this. This information may be used to ensure safety during your pending divorce.
Don’t hide any information from your lawyer: If you are working with a lawyer, you have the best chances of representation if you are truthful. If you have any accounts or concerns, it is best to share these with your divorce lawyer as soon as possible.
Don’t underestimate the value of a lawyer: You may be tempted to go it alone to avoid legal costs. However, working with a divorce lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected. Additionally, your lawyer can help with the negotiations, ensuring that you receive your fair share of the assets.

Navigating a divorce is not easy. When you choose to work with a family law lawyer, you can avoid some of the most common mistakes that could actually hurt your case. Divorce lawyers have developed negotiation skills that can be valuable to your divorce case. Talk with a divorce lawyer today to learn more about what you should and should not do during a divorce.

Contact a Cherry Hill Family Law Attorney for a Consultation About Your Divorce in New Jersey Today

If you are thinking about filing for divorce, or if you have already started the divorce process and are dealing with another matter such as child custody, child support, or division of assets, you need to speak with a qualified attorney. The New Jersey family law attorneys at Cordry Hartman LLC represent clients throughout the state, including Moorestown, Cherry Hill, Evesham Township, and Mount Laurel. We understand how challenging this time can be for you, which is why we will fight hard to protect your interests, and the interests of your loved ones, throughout the legal process. Call us at (856) 235-4511 or fill out our confidential online contact form to schedule a consultation. We have an office conveniently located at 68 E. Main Street, Moorestown, NJ 08057.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.