Common Mistakes Seen by Divorce Lawyers

By Christine O'Kelly

Many clients often make serious mistakes before looking for divorce lawyers. These mistakes not only make the entire situation more difficult for everyone, but they can also change the outcome of the case. Here are some of the common errors made when a couple begins to separate.

Not Understanding The Gains And Losses

Divorce lawyers have new clients that come in with one of three expectations:

1- They expect to gain more from the separation than they should.

2- They expect to lose far more at the end of the case than they should.

3- They have no idea what they will gain or lose and are simply looking for direction.

Unfortunately, neither side will get everything they want, nor will either side lose everything. Try to start the situation as open minded and realistic as possible. If you are unsure, talk with your divorce lawyer.

Making Emotional Decisions

Individuals on both sides are involved in an emotionally charged situation. In many instances, it can be difficult to sort out reasonable actions from those originating in anger and hurt. These feelings lead to disagreements and wrong steps that can devastate the case. Never do anything without thinking it through rationally first. In many instances, you are better to talk it out with someone who isn't directly involved with the issue.

Working Against Yourself

Being anxious and worried throughout the case is normal, but interfering with a divorce lawyer's ability to do his or her job can be devastating. Once you have chosen your legal professional, allow him or her to do their job effectively. Help as much as you're needed, but don't work against your lawyer. You will not only make things more difficult, but you may also form holes in your case. If you are unsure about how to help your lawyer, don't be afraid to ask.

Examine The Paperwork

Since most people do not have the education necessary to make complicated legal forms and papers easy to understand, many individuals simply stack the papers from their divorce lawyer into a folder without examining them closely. Remember that mistakes can easily happen and that your attorney doesn't know everything about you. Always check paperwork over very carefully when you receive it to ensure anything incorrect is dealt with before it complicates matters.

Failing To Ask Questions

If you are unsure about anything your legal representative is doing, always ask. He or she will explain to you what it means, and why they have chosen to do things in a certain way. If you disagree, talk it over with him or her. Divorce lawyers in Chicago and those elsewhere in the country do their best to ensure they represent you as effectively as they can. However, they do need your patience, cooperation, and help if they are to do that efficiently. Being aware of some of these common mistakes is certainly a step in the right direction.

About the Author

Christine O'Kelly is an author for Votja Law, the practice of fierce Chicago divorce lawyer John C. Votja. For experienced and knowledgeable divorce lawyers in Chicago, clients facing any type of family law matter have relied on this powerful attorney since 1982.

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