According to Lawyers, These 19 Things Are More Common in Divorce Cases Than Clients Seem to Think
1. Social Media Drama
Social media can be a huge factor in divorce cases. People often post things online without thinking about the consequences. Those posts can come back to haunt them in court.
2. Financial Secrets
It’s not uncommon for one spouse to hide money or assets from the other. This can create a lot of tension and mistrust, making the divorce process even more difficult.
3. Infidelity
Cheating is a major reason for many divorces. It’s more common than people think and can complicate the legal proceedings.
4. Child Custody Battles
Fighting over who gets the kids is a frequent issue. Both parents usually want custody, which can lead to long and emotional battles.
5. Unrealistic Expectations
Many clients come into the process with unrealistic ideas about what they’ll get out of the divorce. This can lead to disappointment and frustration.
6. Emotional Outbursts
Divorces are emotional, and it’s common for clients to have outbursts during meetings or in court. This can sometimes hurt their case.
7. Lengthy Processes
Divorce isn’t quick. Many people think it will be over in a few months, but it often takes much longer, especially if there are disputes over assets or custody.
8. Mediation
Mediation is often used to help couples reach an agreement. It’s a common part of the process that can make things smoother.
9. Property Division
Splitting up property and assets is a major part of divorce. It can be complicated, especially if there are significant assets involved.
10. Spousal Support
One spouse may need to pay spousal support to the other. This is more common than people realize and can be a contentious issue.
11. Legal Fees
Divorces can be expensive. Clients often underestimate how much they’ll need to spend on legal fees and other costs.
12. Communication Breakdowns
Many divorcing couples have trouble communicating, which can make the process harder. Lawyers often have to act as intermediaries.
13. Mental Health Issues
Mental health problems can play a big role in divorce cases. They can affect custody decisions and complicate the legal process.
14. Substance Abuse
Alcohol and drug abuse are common issues in divorce cases. They can impact custody and support decisions.
15. Domestic Violence
Unfortunately, domestic violence is a factor in many divorces. It can make the process more urgent and complex.
16. Prenuptial Agreements
More couples have prenuptial agreements these days. They can simplify the divorce process but also lead to disagreements if one party contests the terms.
17. Co-Parenting Challenges
Even after the divorce is final, co-parenting can be tough. Parents often struggle to find a balance that works for everyone involved.
18. Relocation Issues
Sometimes one parent wants to move to a different city or state. This can complicate custody arrangements and lead to further legal battles.
19. New Relationships
Starting a new relationship before the divorce is finalized can create additional tension and complications. It’s something lawyers see quite often.
Divorce is rarely simple, and these common issues can make it even more challenging. Understanding these factors can help you prepare for what lies ahead.