It is an unfortunate fact that many times, women fare worse than men financially in a divorce. There is no question that divorce is traumatic, and that you will have to make some of the most important decisions of your life at a time when you are most stressed. It helps to know the most common divorce mistakes that women make so you can avoid them:
Not understanding your family’s finances. While much has changed when it comes to gender roles, it is still usually men who control the finances in the family. A husband could rack up a lot of debt or stash away cash without a wife even knowing about it. If divorce is in your future, start paying attention by reviewing bills, bank statements and investment account documents so you have a true picture of your family’s finances.
Not having ready cash. If you are totally dependent on your husband for financial support, your attorney can request temporary maintenance to cover your expenses until the divorce is final. You will need money for your daily expenses as well as legal fees, so be sure you have access to some ready cash.
Not hiring an attorney. If you get along, your husband may suggest that the two of you can work things out on your own and that you don’t need to hire an attorney for your divorce. Don’t fall for it. Having your own attorney will ensure you get what you are entitled to in the divorce settlement. Your attorney knows the law and will negotiate on your behalf, saving you from probably getting less than you’re entitled to under the law if you try to do it on your own.
Acting on emotion. Some women give in too soon in settlement negotiations because the process can be emotionally exhausting. And some women don’t care how much it costs them to exact revenge on their spouse. Letting your emotions control your actions in a divorce is counterproductive. Stay calm and you are likely to get a better outcome.
Settling too soon for too little. Sometimes women will sign an agreement giving them less than they are entitled to just to get the divorce done. Most who do come to regret it. You have every right under the law to get your fair share of marital property in a divorce. Don’t be bullied or guilted into settling for less.
Believing mothers always get custody. The days of mothers automatically being awarded custody in a divorce are over. In New Jersey, family courts are gender-neutral, which means that both parents have the same rights to their children in a custody dispute.
By handling cases with the dignity and respect they deserve, we have helped many families in New Jersey civilly resolve their divorce, rebuild a satisfying life, and confidently step into the next chapter of their lives. Contact us today for your free consultation.
