Divorce rates in the U.S. declined from 2009 to 2019, but divorces are still commonplace. According to the American Psychological Association, more than 90 percent of Americans will marry before age 50, but up to 40 to 50 percent of marriages in the U.S. ultimately end in divorce. Of course, no one gets married thinking they will someday divorce, but unfortunately, it becomes a reality for many Americans.
There are many reasons why couples divorce. Studies have shown that the most common grounds for divorce include infidelity, excessive conflict, lack of commitment, and financial problems. But no matter the reason, if you’re facing divorce, it’s essential that you take steps to avoid the common mistakes men make in this situation.
These common divorce mistakes can be costly on a personal and financial level. It becomes even more imperative that you plan ahead and tread carefully if there are children involved, or if you and your spouse have shared assets.
6 Common Divorce Mistakes Men Make
Are you preparing for your divorce proceedings? To help you avoid the most common pitfalls, here’s a look at the six most common divorce mistakes:
1. Mistakes About Custody
There are many myths surrounding divorce, and putting faith in them can harm you during your divorce proceedings. For example, one of the mistakes many dads make during divorce is to believe they will lose custody of their children to the mother no matter what they do.
While it is true that courts have historically been more likely to grant custody to a child’s mother, this is not always the case nowadays. In many cases, custodial outcomes are determined outside of court through a mutual agreement in the child’s best interest. A divorce lawyer can assist you in navigating custody proceedings and help you fight for custody.
2. Failing to Research Your Options
Divorce proceedings can be complicated, and each divorce is different. If you are seriously considering divorce, it is essential that you research your options, prepare for your divorce proceedings, and seek advice from an experienced divorce lawyer. How well you research and prepare for your divorce can substantially impact the outcome, affecting your life for years to come.
3. Not Believing Your Spouse When They Say They Want a Divorce
It’s a common myth that you can prevent your spouse from getting a divorce. While it takes two people to get married, only one needs to file for a divorce. If your spouse says they want a divorce, take them seriously and discuss the idea with them. If one spouse does not agree to the divorce, they may be able to stall proceedings, but they won’t be able to block it entirely.
4. Pitting Children Against Your Spouse
Divorce can be incredibly challenging for any child, but it can be even more difficult if you attempt to pit your child against your spouse. Not only will these disparaging comments likely get back to your spouse, but they can ultimately damage the relationship you have with your child and hurt you during divorce proceedings. Therefore, regardless of who you believe is at fault or whether or not the desire for a divorce is mutually agreed upon, you should never use your children in a divorce.
5. Failing to Respond to Divorce Proceedings
One of the most substantial mistakes men make in divorce is to not respond to divorce proceedings. You cannot prevent your spouse from divorcing you by ignoring divorce proceedings. Furthermore, if you fail to respond to a divorce proceeding, a default judgment may be made, and you will lose your rights to negotiate assets, custody of children, and other requests that your spouse may have made.
6. Taking Legal Advice from Non-Professionals
When going through divorce proceedings, it is crucial that you speak with an experienced attorney. It’s a common mistake to take legal advice from family and friends regarding your divorce, even if they have previously gone through the process. Every divorce is different, and your confidante’s divorce proceeding likely had factors that differed from your own.
Turn to an Expert to Avoid Common Divorce Mistakes
Divorces can be complicated, especially in cases where shared assets or children are involved. Divorce Lawyers for Men is here to help you navigate divorce proceedings and help prevent you from falling prey to common divorce mistakes. Are you preparing for a divorce? Don’t fall for the common mistakes men make in divorce. Instead, contact us today at 360-866-7293 or schedule a consultation online.
