The Most Common Mistakes Women Make During the Early Stages of Divorce Part 1: Legal Advice

Divorce is emotional, taxing, and overwhelming, and believe me, anyone who has ever gone through a divorce gets it. Sadly, sometimes the choices we make in the beginning of our divorce journey, aren’t in our best interest, and can lead to a greater loss than just the marriage itself. We may react rather than act, or possibly even just “check right out” without handling our situation mindfully or thoughtfully. It makes perfect sense given the emotional upheaval we may experience, coupled with the pragmatic decisions we are now obligated to make. But ready or not, decisions need to be made, some more complicated than others. Which is precisely why every choice you make during this period of time, is critical.

This series will cover the most common mistakes many women make during their divorce. See if you might notice a pattern.

Part 1: Maybe I don’t need legal advice?

Whether it be a mediator or an attorney, you WILL need to obtain legal advice. And why wouldn’t you? Is it because your ex is telling you that it’s not necessary and that the two of you can just work it out together? That it will be too expensive and maybe friends or family can give you advice?

According to every attorney I know, this is one of the most common mistakes women make during the early stages of their divorce. There is no way around this one. And to think that you can just figure it all out on your own, with maybe some input from others, is one of the biggest short term and long term mistakes you can make. Plainly speaking, you do not know what you do not know, and how would you? That’s what a legal expert if for.

An attorney or mediator will educate and guide you as it is their job to do so. It is in your best interest to learn what it is that you need to learn sooner than later. This doesn’t mean that you are roped into spending thousands of dollars on a lawyer. On the contrary. The knowledge you glean with obtaining legal advice in the very beginning can potentially save you considerable money down the road of divorce. Preventing legal hiccups is far less expensive than fixing legal problems later on. Plus, most consultations are complimentary, so what do you have to lose?