Mistakes to Avoid in Family Law Cases
Table of Contents:
Failing to Seek Legal Help
Lack of Communication and Organization
Failing to Prioritize Your Children’s best Interest
Social Media Missteps
Disobeying Court Orders
Family law cases are complex. No matter what type of case you’re going through, it will require care, diligence and expertise.
If you’re unfamiliar with the divorce process, it can be easy to make mistakes that can heavily impact your case. In this article, we’ll explore a few of those mistakes, as well as how to avoid them.
Failing to Seek Legal Help
Although it might seem cheaper and easier to go through a “do-it-yourself” divorce, the cost of making a mistake during your divorce proceedings could outweigh the cost of hiring an experienced attorney. Divorce is already challenging as it is; a family law attorney can take the burden off your shoulders and allow you to heal instead of dealing with all the logistics and complexities that come with divorce. Not to mention, an attorney who specializes in family law will be able to navigate the details of your case and protect you in a way you likely can’t.
Lack of Communication and Organization
Poor communication with your ex or co-parent can prolong legal battles and put you at a disadvantage. Organizing records and practicing effective communication with your co-parent or ex will help you in the long run. Before you meet with your attorney, there are things you can do to get ahead and equip them with the information they need to do their jobs to the best of their ability:
➡️ Gather all your financial documents, including federal, state, and local income tax returns, pay stubs, real estate deeds, etc.
➡️ Gather any necessary personal records, such as birth certificates and any previous court decrees
➡️ Provide your prenuptial or postnuptial agreement if you have one
Failing to Prioritize Your Children’s Best Interest
During the emotional and challenging process of divorce, many adults focus on conflict and issues with their spouse and unintentionally overlook the impact it can have on their children.
During a divorce with children in Georgia, the Court will take several different factors into account when making decisions about custody:
➡️The love, affection, bonding, and emotional ties existing between each parent and child
➡️The love, affection, bonding, and emotional ties existing between the child and his or her siblings, half siblings, and stepsiblings and the resident of such other children
➡️The capacity and disposition of each parent to give the child love, affection, and guidance and to continue the education and rearing of the child
➡️The home environment of each parent
➡️The stability of the family unit of each of the parents
Find the exhaustive list here.
Read more about the generational effects of divorce on you, your family, and your children here.
Social Media Missteps
Social media can be a legal minefield in family law cases. Avoid making impulsive social media posts regarding your case. Posting emotionally charged or inappropriate content can be used against you in court.
Here are three best practices to follow when posting:
- Never share private information regarding your case
- Never share your opinion on discrete issues or rulings made in your case
- Never speak negatively about the opposing party
Disobeying Court Orders
Once court orders or agreements are in place, it is essential to adhere to them. If you are found in civil contempt in Georgia, there could be severe legal consequences including fines, loss of custody or even jail time.
Ways this could happen include:
➡️ Misbehavior of any person(s) in court in a way that obstructs justice
➡️ Disobedience or resistance by any person(s) to any lawful process, order, rule, decree, or command of the courts
The Attorneys at Brown Dutton & Crider Can Help You Avoid Making Costly Mistakes
At Brown Dutton & Crider, our attorneys understand that the divorce process can be confusing and difficult to navigate alone. Our experienced family law attorneys are here to guide you through the process, protect your rights, and reach the best possible solution for your family’s unique situation.
If you have questions about your situation or are interested in scheduling a consultation, contact the attorneys at Brown Dutton & Crider today. Call (678) 730-2578 or get in touch with us here.