Divorce Traps for The Unwary
Having worked with men and women in paternity actions, contested divorce matters, and post-divorce actions relating to modifications of custody and support, The Massachusetts Family Law Group offers experienced legal representation and helps clients avoid the costly mistakes made by so many couples during the steps of the divorce process and inside of the Probate and Family Courts in Bristol, Plymouth, and Barnstable County.
Our attorneys claim that there are so many hidden traps for the unwary litigant facing divorce. Even if you aren't yet ready to retain an attorney to handle your divorce, you would be well advised now to get as much information as you can. There's a lot to know about divorce in Massachusetts, especially matters under the jurisdiction of the Brockton, Plymouth, Fall River, New Bedford, or Barnstable courts.
Be On the Lookout For These Common Courtroom Mistakes
Dirty divorce tricks: Unfortunately, many divorce cases turn into a virtual war zone, with false allegations made from angry, controlling, and vindictive spouses. Most often, these relate to children where custody, child support, and parenting time is at stake. Luckily, most judges view this conduct as appearing spiteful and revengeful, and it can have a boomerang effect and detrimental to the image of the instigator. Realize how the impression you make on the judge plays a role in the outcome of your case. The judge will watch your every move and listen to your every word. Convey a positive image.
Not modifying support obligations early enough: If you have lost your job, your child support or alimony order does not automatically end when your source of income ends. If you are not paying as ordered, arrears (owed payments) will continue to add up until the court changes the order. You must go to court as early as possible to file a Complaint for Modification.
Relying on verbal agreements with your former spouse: Verbal agreements are not recognized by the court, so make sure you get everything in writing. Too often, spouses rely on a verbal agreement and it comes back to haunt them later when the other spouse files a contempt for late pick-up or drop-off times, past-due support, etc.
Having your Facebook or Twitter posts seen by the judge. One million adults in the Greater Boston area have Facebook accounts, and on an hourly basis men and women are sharing more personal information than they may realize. We recommend that clients shut their account off during a family court action. Indicating on Twitter that you are single during your divorce can create difficulty. So can pictures depicting you as going out at night, consuming alcohol, etc. You should also be concerned with not only what you post, but what others post on your Facebook wall.
Portraying a poor image. Dress conservatively, don't bring your new boyfriend or girlfriend to court, and turn off your cell phone. The courthouses on the South Shore and Cape are full of women who think if they show a little cleavage or leg, their sex appeal will work in their favor. When going to court, nothing could be further from the truth. Additionally, rushing into a new relationship sends the message that you are having outsiders parent your children and it isn't viewed in a positive light.
Let Our Strategic, Local Attorneys Represent You in Court
We represent same-sex and opposite sex partners on issues of asset valuation and division, child support, allocation of college costs, alimony and spousal support, taxes, health and life insurance policies, parenting plans, business interests, and future modifications.
Our local Plymouth and Cape Cod attorneys have a strong presence. We command attention in the courtroom. Those who observe us in the courtroom ask for our business cards. Time and time again people hire inexperienced lawyers who are unfamiliar with the judges, court rules and general family law procedures. This can be a costly mistake.
Now is the time to learn what to do, what not to do, and more of the most common traps for the unwary. Call (800) 299-DIVORCE or contact us online for an appointment.
