Going through a divorce in Texas can be a challenging experience. Your choices have the potential to affect many parts of your life. This typically includes your children, your financial future as well as your lifestyle. Knowing what mistakes to avoid can help you protect your position throughout the divorce process.
Allowing your emotions to affect your decision-making
Divorce naturally brings intense feelings of anger, hurt and frustration. If you let these emotions guide your decisions, you may regret the results later. You might be tempted to fight over items that hold little actual value simply to spite your former spouse, or you may make impulsive financial decisions that seem satisfying at the time but prove costly later.
Consider taking time to cool down before making major decisions. A therapist or counselor can help you manage your emotions and stay focused on your long-term goals.
Being dishonest about your assets and finances
Texas is a community property state, which means most assets and debts acquired during marriage are divided between spouses. Some people attempt to hide money, undervalue assets or fail to disclose accounts, thinking this will give them an advantage. However, this approach typically backfires.
Unlike states that require a strict 50/50 split, courts in Texas divide community property in a manner it deems just and right, which may not always be equal. Factors such as disparities in earning power and each spouse’s education or employability may influence how the court divides property.
Courts take financial dishonesty seriously. If they find hidden assets, it can hurt your case. Full transparency about your financial situation, even when difficult, tends to lead to fairer outcomes and helps maintain your integrity throughout the proceedings.
Using your children as messengers
Children should never become pawns in divorce disputes. Using them to deliver messages to your former spouse, asking them to choose sides or speaking negatively about the other parent in their presence can cause lasting emotional harm. Texas courts prioritize the best interests of children when making custody decisions.
State law typically presumes that appointing both parents as joint managing conservators serves the best interest of the child, though this does not necessarily mean equal parenting time. Courts consider factors including the emotional and physical needs of the child, the parenting abilities of each parent, the stability of each home environment and any history of family violence when determining conservatorship and possession schedules.
With these factors in mind, proving that you can work well with the other parent may help your custody case. Texas courts often look favorably upon parents who encourage and support the relationship between the child and the other parent.
Your vigilance can protect your interests during the divorce
Divorce can present difficult choices, but the steps you take now can shape your future for years to come. By approaching decisions thoughtfully, remaining honest about your finances and prioritizing your children’s well-being, you can navigate the process more effectively.
