5 Things You Are Doing to Increase the Cost of Your Divorce

Divorce is often a financially and emotionally draining process. While deciding to end a marriage is never easy, it is crucial to approach the process with a clear head and a focus on minimizing expenses.

Unfortunately, people make several common mistakes that can make their divorce more expensive. This article examines five ways you may inadvertently make your divorce more costly.

Five Ways You Inadvertently Increase the Price of Your Divorce

Here are five ways you may be increasing your divorce legal charges.

1. Fighting Over Small Assets

Divorce often involves dividing assets, including property, retirement accounts, and other financial assets. While ensuring that assets are divided fairly is essential, fighting over every small asset is only sometimes necessary. For example, spending thousands of dollars in legal fees to fight over a piece of furniture or a small savings account may not be worth the expense.

To avoid this, it is important to prioritize assets and focus on the items that are most important to you. Consider working with a financial advisor to evaluate the value of each asset and determine which items are worth fighting over.

2. Failing to Communicate With Your Spouse

Communication is key in any divorce. Couples often have a hard time communicating effectively during this challenging time. In good divorces, former couples can agree upon the court and only need their lawyers to draft the papers.

Failing to communicate with your spouse can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and increased legal fees. “Being open and honest with your spouse throughout the divorce process is important. The divorce process can be stressful, so being understanding and respectful to your spouse can benefit you in the long-run,” says attorney Samah T. Abukhodeir of The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm. Consider working with a mediator or counselor to improve communication and develop a plan for resolving disagreements.

3. Choosing the Wrong Attorney

Choosing the right attorney is critical in any divorce. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of choosing an attorney who is not the right fit for their needs. This can increase legal fees, delays, and a more contentious divorce process.

To prevent this, it is important to take the time to research potential attorneys and schedule consultations with several candidates. Look for an attorney with experience in divorce law who understands your specific needs and goals and is a good communicator.

4. Talking To Your Attorney All the Time

Many divorce attorneys advise clients not to discuss emotional and minor details with them because they charge by the hour. You should speak with friends about such issues or your lawyer's staff and avoid getting charged for conversations that do not require legal advice or expertise. 

5. Letting Emotions Take Over

Divorce can be emotional, and letting your feelings take over is easy. However, making decisions based on emotion rather than logic can be costly. For example, fighting for sole custody of your children without considering the financial implications may not be in your best interest.

It would help if you worked with a counselor or therapist to manage your emotions during divorce. Consider working with a financial advisor to evaluate the long-term financial impact of any decisions.

Conclusion

Divorce is a difficult and often costly process. However, avoiding common mistakes can minimize expenses and make the process as smooth as possible. Remember, the decisions you make during your divorce can define your financial future for years to come, so it is important to approach the process with a clear head and a focus on long-term success.