The process of divorce is often complicated and emotionally draining. This is due to the fact that there are many different aspects that need to be addressed in order for the marriage to officially be dissolved. Throughout this time, it is important for spouses to remember many things. However, one of the most important things to remember is to maintain proper behavior and to not engage in any actions that could potentially harm the outcome of the proceedings. To remember what is appropriate and what is not, Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn compiled a list of the “do’s and don’ts” of divorce.Continue reading below to learn more and contact our firm for assistance during this time.
What Should I Do?
When a spouse goes through a divorce, their goal is generally for the process to go as smoothly as possible without any issues. It is because of this that the following actions should be implemented to help the process along the way:
- Change passwords to all email accounts and social media sites
- Disclose all assets and liabilities when filling out your inventory
- Be aware of the household budget and expenses
- Collect your last two tax returns, real estate deeds, and mortgage documents
- Examine your credit history and get a credit report
- Know the total balance on any joint checking and savings bank accounts
- Know the balance on your retirement plans, 401(k), pension plan, etc.
- Get a copy of your spouse’s last two paycheck stubs
- Seek out a CPA or accountant to help review the tax implications of your divorce
- Seek help for any alcohol or illegal substance abuse
- Keep a journal to document the exchange and pick up of any children you have
- Keep any copies of money paid to your spouse
- Be sure to pay your child support on time
- Maintain good co-parenting practices with your spouse
- Comply with any court-ordered injunctions and restrictions
What Should I Not Do?
Alternatively, there are also many actions that spouses should avoid during this time. While some may seem harmless, they still have the potential to impact the outcome of the proceedings. This can include the following:
- Keep things from your attorney
- Post anything on social media that can be used against you
- Post information regarding your divorce on social media
- Withhold visitation from your spouse for their failure to make child support payments
- Move out of state with your children
- Start another romantic relationship during the proceedings
- Bring a new significant other around your children or the court hearings
- Get pregnant or get anyone pregnant
- Remove children from their current school
- Buy real estate or any extravagant items while the divorce is pending
- Sell property without the court’s permission
- Send mean or negative emails, texts, messages, etc. to your spouse
- Increase your debt while the divorce is pending
- Give large contributions to anyone during the proceedings
- Discuss the case with your children or use them as intermediaries
- Criticize your spouse in front of your children
Contact our Firm
If you require strong legal representation for matters related to divorce or family law, Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn is here to help. We proudly represent clients in Morris County and throughout the state of New Jersey. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
