Last week on this blog we offered up some tips on how to avoid common divorce mistakes in times of separation. Two more important and potentially problematic mistakes still need to be directly addressed, and Colorado couples or families who are either contemplating or already in the middle of a divorce, child support, or child custody case should avail themselves of these pointers.
•Making kids choose: Some divorces can make it seem as if a person’s family is being taken away from them, leaving them alone and without the support structure they once enjoyed and relied upon in hard times. For any number of reasons, divorcing parents frequently attempt to use their children against their ex-spouse, dragging them into the conflict and making them play favorites. Not only does such a situation make it even more difficult for kids to cope with the effects of a divorce-leading to possible depression and anger, but such tactics can actually harm a parent’s chances of securing a favorable child custody agreement.
• Refusing to seek help: Although society’s take on divorce divorcees has markedly evolved over more recent decades, many still worry that they will be seen as fickle or wounded by the friends, family, and coworkers they relied upon for support during their marriage. This is hardly the case, however, and opening up to a trusted friend or loved one who is removed from a person’s separating household can help to both alleviate stress and offer up a fresh, supportive perspective on this chapter of life.
Divorce is rarely easy, no matter how amicable a couple’s situation may be. However, avoiding commonplace mistakes such as these and working diligently with a family law attorney can help to keep the process as simple and agreeable as possible, which will undoubtedly lead to a happier, more successful life post-separation.
Source: The Huffington Post, “The 5 Worst Mistakes We Make During a Divorce,” Jeff Gardere, Feb. 18, 2013
• For advice, counsel, and a clear start to a favorable settlement contact our Boulder family law page.
