Couples who are going through a divorce in Pennsylvania may have a better outcome if they learn from other peoples’ mistakes. One error that many divorcing people make is choosing to take the matter to court because they think it is the only option available. In fact, divorcing spouses may instead opt to try and settle property division and child custody issues through negotiation, mediation or collaborative law.
Another mistake that is often made is spending too much energy fighting over relatively minor issues while forgetting to look at the big picture. For example, parents who are arguing that they should receive more child support money each month may want to consider their child’s age. If the child is 2 years old, focusing efforts on this type of issue may be worth the extra time and expense. If the child is in high school, it may be better for the parent to leave this matter alone.
A lot of people go into the divorce process not realizing how much time it will take. Rather than starting out on the offensive, a spouse should take the time to calmly assess all of the issues at hand and get prepared. A divorcing spouse who does not have all of the couple’s financial information ready will be at a disadvantage in court proceedings and negotiations.
A lawyer may be able to help a client whose marriage is ending avoid some of the most common missteps that can affect certain divorce issues. Before every negotiation or court hearing, a lawyer may assist the client in the preparation and compilation of all of the necessary documents and evidence that will be needed.
