5 Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Las Vegas Divorce
Going through a divorce can be emotionally and legally challenging. It is easy to make mistakes that have serious implications on your future if you do not get help in navigating the divorce process. In the discussion that follows, Las Vegas divorce attorney Joseph Gersten summarizes common mistakes that can occur during a Las Vegas divorce.
Mistake # 1. Allowing Emotions To Control Your Decision-Making
Emotions often run high on both sides of a divorce. While being emotional is completely normal, it is crucial not to let your emotions control the decisions you make during the legal process. Negotiations should be based on the actual circumstances, not on your emotional reaction to the situation. Having an experienced divorce attorney represent you can go a long way to ensuring that you make decisions that are in your best interests long-term, rather than based on how you feel at the moment. A support system of friends and family is also extremely important.
Mistake # 2. Failing to Prioritize the Needs and Interests of Children
When a divorce affects children, their needs and interests are one of the most important considerations throughout the divorce process. You should protect them from the negative effects of the proceeding to the extent possible, while ensuring that you keep their well-being as a top priority.
The extent of communication with children depends on their ages and maturity, but you should always be open and honest with them to the extent possible. Focus on developing a parenting plan that prioritizes their needs and interests both short-term and longer-term.
Mistake # 3. Trying to Rush and Force the Process
After you make the decision to proceed with a divorce, it is natural to want the whole process to be completed as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, getting a divorce takes time. The more complex your circumstances are, the more time the proceedings take.
It is important that you understand every step of the process and the impact of every decision you make along the way. The terms of the final divorce order can shape your life for many years into the future. Being patient and thoughtful helps you make decisions that lead to a better outcome.
You may be inclined to accept the first settlement offer relating to property division or custody and support. Initial offers frequently are not completely fair to both parties and should be scrutinized in detail before making a decision to move forward. Your divorce attorney can provide guidance and help you get the best possible result for yourself and your family.
Mistake # 4. Failing to Fully Understand the Financial and Community Property Implications
Nevada has laws that apply to division of community property and other financial matters in a divorce, including child support and alimony (spousal support). Your divorce lawyer makes certain that you understand your property rights under state laws before you make financial decisions. Remember to consider your future financial needs and the long-term well-being of your children, rather than making decisions that apply only under the current situation. In addition, be certain that tax implications of agreements are taken into account as part of negotiations.
Both sides must be fully transparent about assets and debts. Full disclosure is essential to reaching a fair and equitable division of property. Alert your lawyer if you think your spouse is attempting to hide or undervalue assets.
Mistake # 5. Underestimating the Importance of Legal Advice and Representation
Nevada has complex laws that affect many aspects of the divorce process. If you attempt to navigate a divorce without advice and guidance from a lawyer, you can create a myriad of problems that become difficult to resolve. Your lawyer makes certain that the proper procedures are followed and that all legal considerations are fully addressed during the process. Getting strategic advice and guidance from an experienced divorce lawyer helps to ensure that you get the best possible outcome when the divorce is finalized.
If you are considering filing for divorce in Las Vegas, family law attorney Joseph Gersten is here to help. He draws on his extensive experience in domestic matters to protect your interests and pursue the best resolution of all issues.
Schedule a Free Consultation With an Experienced Las Vegas Divorce Lawyer
Your initial consultation is always free-of-charge at The Gersten Law Firm. Call 702.857.8777 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.
