Divorce represents one of the most challenging transitions in life, requiring careful decision-making during an emotionally charged time. Many people entering the divorce process make avoidable mistakes that impact their financial stability, parental rights, and future well-being. 

Recognizing these five common pitfalls before starting a divorce helps spouses protect their interests and move forward with greater confidence.  

Is Hiding Assets a Good Strategy During Divorce?

Attempting to conceal assets during a divorce is never advisable and can result in serious legal consequences. Arkansas courts require full financial disclosure from both parties, and judges take a dim view of dishonesty. 

If you are caught hiding bank accounts, property, or other valuables, you may face penalties including unfavorable asset division, fines, or even contempt charges. The discovery process is thorough, and lawyers have multiple tools to uncover hidden assets.  

Should I Make Major Financial Decisions Before My Divorce Is Final?

Making significant financial moves before your divorce concludes can jeopardize your settlement and create unnecessary complications. Large purchases, taking on new debt, or drastically changing your spending patterns may be viewed unfavorably by the court. These actions can affect property division calculations and spousal support determinations. 

The timing of major transactions matters greatly in divorce proceedings, as courts will scrutinize financial activity during the separation period. Wait until your divorce is finalized before making major financial commitments, and consult with your lawyer about any pressing financial needs that arise during proceedings to avoid damaging your case.

Can Social Media Posts Affect My Divorce Case?

Your social media activity can significantly impact your divorce outcome, particularly regarding custody and asset division matters. Posts showing excessive spending, new relationships, inappropriate behavior, or negative comments about your spouse can be used as evidence against you. Additionally, photos and status updates that contradict your claims about finances or parenting may damage your credibility before the judge. Anything you post online can be screenshot and presented in court, regardless of privacy settings; even seemingly innocent posts can be misconstrued or used out of context. The safest approach is to avoid posting on social media during your divorce.

Is Using Children as Messengers Harmful?

Involving children in adult matters or using them to communicate with your spouse creates emotional harm and can negatively affect custody decisions. Children should never be asked to relay messages about legal matters, finances, or parental conflicts. Courts prioritize the well-being of children, and judges may view such behavior as evidence of poor judgment or parental alienation. Placing children in the middle of disputes forces them to choose sides and creates lasting psychological damage. This practice also violates the spirit of co-parenting that Arkansas courts favor.  

Will Letting Emotions Drive My Decisions Cost Me?

Allowing anger, hurt, or spite to guide your choices during divorce can lead to prolonged litigation and unfavorable outcomes. Fighting over items with minimal financial value, refusing reasonable settlement offers out of vindictiveness, or pursuing litigation solely to punish your spouse wastes time and money. While high emotions are natural during this process, making decisions based on logic and long-term interests produces better results. 

Legal fees accumulate quickly when parties cannot reach agreements, and drawn-out battles drain resources that could support your post-divorce life. Our recommendation: Focus on what truly matters for your future rather than winning every battle, and consider the practical implications of each decision on your finances and well-being.

A Skilled Fayetteville Divorce Lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm Helps Clients Avoid Costly Mistakes During a Divorce

Mistakes made during the divorce process can derail your financial future. For experienced legal help, contact a Fayetteville divorce lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm. For a free consultation, call today at 479-443-8080 or complete our online form. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.