If you are going through a divorce, you should be informed. Every step you take, from telling your spouse you want a divorce to signing papers, is crucial. Thus, it helps to be careful when filing for a divorce.
Here are three mistakes to avoid:
1. Not knowing which type of divorce to file
Pennsylvania has two main types of divorce – no-fault and fault divorce. In a no-fault divorce, you don’t need grounds for the divorce, but you should meet certain requirements. These include the marriage should be irretrievably broken and you should have separated for at least one year, among others. The court can grant this divorce by mutual consent 90 days after filing.
A fault divorce should have grounds, which can be:
- Adultery
- Bigamy
- Domestic violence
- Imprisonment for two or more years upon conviction
- Conduct that renders the marriage intolerable
You should assess your case and make the right option. Filing the wrong type can force you to go through a process you could have avoided.
2. Acting out of emotion
Undoubtedly, divorce can be emotional. The life you knew and thought would last forever is about to change. However, while your feelings are valid, the decisions you make can affect your life year. Thus, you should not act out of emotions – your decisions should be rational.
3. Not understanding temporary orders
The court will give temporary orders before the case is finalized. Not understanding these orders can work to your disadvantage. Make sure that you ask questions to understand each and observe them accordingly. How you treat a temporary order may determine the direction the court takes when it comes time to give permanent ones.
If you’re approaching a divorce here in Pennsylvania, the wisest move you can make is to get some experienced legal guidance.