Divorce delusions: The most common divorce misconceptions

Collaborative Post¦ Sadly, a large percentage of marriages end in divorce. And while it’s safe to say that most couples don’t intend to ever get divorced, when things do begin to turn sour, it can be difficult to understand the upcoming divorce process. Consulting with a family and divorce lawyer like Bridgeport divorce lawyers will help you not only better understand the divorce process but also know your rights in the court of law.

Thanks to a general lack of knowledge and experience in the subject, it can leave many individuals on the backfoot when it comes to filing for divorce and walking away from the relationship with the means and the confidence to start the new chapter of their life. Common misconceptions about divorce can leave individuals thinking that they’re going to walk away with the house, the kids, the car and even without debt. So, you must understand the fundamentals of divorce before you file.

Here we’ll take a look at some of the top divorce delusions and the most common misconceptions about divorce.

My lawyer will ensure I don’t get the debt

One of the most common separation questions asked: is personal debt shared in divorce? Ultimately, if your name is signed on a loan, then you are responsible for paying it back. However, if the debts were incurred during the marriage then these debts and assets may be combined and then deducted from the total divorce settlement. If your partner entered the marriage with huge amounts of personal debt, then it’s unlikely that you’ll have to take on those responsibilities. Always speak to a solicitor such as Peters and May to find out more information on the matter.

If the marriage isn’t working out, I can get a quick divorce

If things are becoming rocky within the first year, it’s a common misconception that you can get a quick divorce because you’ve only been married for a short amount of time. Sadly, this isn’t the case. In most cases, ‘a quick divorce’ isn’t possible as there are many different processes and considerations involved.

We’ll have to air our “dirty laundry” in court

TV and film have always dramatized divorce. When in real life – despite the friction between you – the whole process can be handled amicably, without stepping foot in a courtroom. Your solicitor will always opt for a non-confrontational route. This is usually the best way for both parties to get what they want as quickly and painlessly as possible.

If you have kids, they’ll live with their mother

Every family dynamic is different. And there is no guarantee that the children will be automatically placed with their mother. Ultimately, what is best for the children will be the catalyst in this emotive decision. Although, it’s worth remembering that many families make their own arrangements as far as the children are concerned.

I earn more money – I’ll get more

If you’re the breadwinner and your partner is a stay-at-home parent, then don’t be fooled into thinking you’ll walk away with everything. Contributions made by the stay-at-home-parent are often viewed in the same light as the fiscal income. And financial needs and requirements e.g. if they need to look after the children, will also be taken into consideration.

Final thoughts…

If you’re considering divorce, reach out to a solicitor as soon as possible.

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