The Do’s and Don’ts of a Divorce/Paternity Case



The Do’s and Don’ts of a Divorce/Paternity Case

Advice on what someone going through a divorce or custody battle should do on Social Media to avoid incriminating themselves!

The list of DO’s and DO NOT’S are for people that are, intend, or expect they may be facing a divorce or custody battle. Some of these will not apply to your particular circumstance. However, the theme that is consistent with all cases is to STOP, take a DEEP BREATH, and LISTEN to the advice of someone who has seen the divorce/paternity process over and over. I hope you find these useful and look forward to any feedback you may want to provide.

The DO’s

  • As I have stated repeatedly, ALWAYS consult an attorney, even if you choose not hire one.
    You are entitled to time-sharing with your children, even if you have made mistakes in the past. DO cooperate with your significant other about time-sharing; you want to be the “Good Guy” in this process.
  • DO try to make the children’s routine as consistent as it was prior to any divorce or custody battle. Things will change but try to keep thing consistent and make small changes.
  • DO monitor what you post or what others are posting about you on Facebook or Twitter.
  • DO an examination of your finances. Dig into your joint finances sooner than later. Be aware of accounts that may hold money in them.
  • DO gather those important documents and make copies.
  • DO secure those personal items that you do not want to come up missing.
  • DO make a list of what you want and why you think you deserve it.
  • DO get familiar with the Florida Financial Affidavit, as you will eventually need to complete it.
  • DO learn and understand the process. Each divorce or paternity case is unique. However, the process is generally the same. Sit down with an attorney and learn the process so you know what to expect.

The DO NOT’s

  • DO NOT listen to your friends and family as to how your divorce should be, unless they are a license Florida attorney that practices Family Law.
  • DO NOT listen to your Spouse, simply because he says you’re are not going to get alimony or she say you will never see the children again, does not mean it is true.
  • DO NOT talk negatively about the other parent. It is never a good idea.
  • DO NOT share all your fear, anxiety, anger resentment, or grief with your children.
  • DO NOT sign anything or agree to anything until you know what you are entitled to in a divorce and have consulted an attorney.
  • DO NOT give away or hide property. When it is found your spouse will be entitled to it anyway. This fraud will not look favorable
  • DO NOT get involved in useless emotional banter with your spouse or other people close to your spouse. Your words can be, and most likely will be, used against you.
  • DO NOT text or e-mail something you do not want to come out in Court.
  • DO NOT hide or conceal the children.
  • DO NOT directly involve your children or ask their input on the divorce.
  • DO NOT lose your cool. No matter how frustrated you get It will only make matters worse if you lash out at your ex or your children.
  • DO NOT make plans for the children, like moving them out of state or changing their schools until your divorce is final.
  • DO NOT violate any temporary custody or visitation arrangements without good cause. Remember you want to look like the “Good Guy,” and not following your own agreement, or a court order could make it harder in the long run.
  • DO NOT lose your cool. No matter how frustrated you get It will only make matters worse if you lash out at your ex or your children.
  • DO NOT make plans for the children, like moving them out of state or changing their schools until your divorce is final.
  • DO NOT violate any temporary custody or visitation arrangements without good cause. Remember you want to look like the “Good Guy,” and not following your own agreement, or a court order could make it harder in the long run.
  • DO NOT go it alone. Speak with an attorney at the first signs of needing one.