Do’s and Don’ts for Family Law Cases

Navigating a Family Law Case: Essential Do’s and Don’ts

Going through a family law case can be emotionally taxing, and the legal process may seem overwhelming, especially when dealing with divorce, child custody, or asset division. However, understanding your duties and obligations can help protect your rights, ensure the best interests of your children, and reduce the likelihood of conflict. This guide offers essential Do’s and Don’ts to assist you in managing your case before and during the dissolution of marriage process.

Do’s

1. Preserve Assets: Safeguard marital assets and use funds only for normal family expenses. Avoid actions that could deplete shared resources.
2. Encourage Contact with Both Parents: Promote the child’s relationship with both parents, encouraging shared decision-making and time-sharing, as long as it is safe for the child.
3. Complete the Parenting Class: If you have minor children, enroll in and complete a court-approved parenting course within 60 days of filing for divorce.
4. Follow Relocation Rules: Obtain written consent from the other parent or a court order before relocating your child out of the county.
5. Respect Courtroom Protocol: Always dress appropriately, behave respectfully, and answer questions in court clearly and without interruption.
6. Communicate Respectfully About Children: Keep parenting discussions respectful. Avoid arguing in front of your children, allowing them to remain uninvolved in adult issues.
7. Exchange Financial Information: Provide accurate and complete financial disclosures as required by law. Failure to do so can cause delays and potentially harm your case.
8. Participate in Mediation: Engage in mediation to reach agreements early and reduce litigation costs. Be ready to compromise on some issues to find mutually acceptable solutions.
9. Maintain Insurance Policies: Keep all insurance policies active and avoid changing them without mutual consent or a court order, as this could lead to unnecessary disputes.
10. File Necessary Documents: Ensure that all required financial affidavits and mandatory disclosures are filed, typically within 45 days of the initial filing.

Don’ts

1. Don’t Hide or Waste Assets: Do not conceal, destroy, or waste marital assets. If you need to close accounts or transfer assets, do so only with mutual written agreement or consult an attorney.
2. Don’t Alienate the Child from the Other Parent: Avoid making negative comments about the other parent to the child or restricting access without a valid reason. Protect the child’s relationship with both parents.
3. Seek Out Therapeutic Resources: If the child is struggling emotionally or mentally with the separation, actively seek professional help. This can improve communication and ease the process for everyone involved.
4. Don’t Involve Children in Legal Matters: Do not bring your children to court unless specifically allowed by the court. Avoid using them as messengers or involving them in adult discussions.
5. Don’t Incur New Debts Without Agreement: Avoid incurring new debts that could negatively impact the other party or the outcome of your case. Use joint credit cards only for necessary expenses.
6. Don’t Ignore Mediation Requirements: Skipping mediation can delay your case and increase legal costs. Mediation is required before the court will hear any contested matters.
7. Don’t Change Insurance Policies: Avoid altering insurance policies, such as health or life insurance, without mutual consent or a court order.
8. Don’t Discuss Divorce Details with Children: Shield children from the specifics of the divorce case to protect their emotional well-being.
9. Don’t Disrespect Court Rules: Failing to adhere to courtroom decorum or acting unprofessionally can harm your case. Always maintain respect for the process.
10. Don’t Expect Special Treatment If Self-Represented: Self-represented litigants are held to the same legal standards as attorneys and must follow all applicable rules.
11. Don’t Contact the Judge’s Office for Legal Advice: Judges and their staff cannot provide legal advice. Familiarize yourself with the judge’s preferences for scheduling hearings, submitting orders, and other procedural matters to avoid complications.

Conclusion

By following these Do’s and Don’ts, you can ensure that your family law case proceeds smoothly and efficiently. Acting respectfully, complying with court procedures, and keeping the best interests of your children at the forefront will help you navigate the complexities of the legal process. If you are self-represented, remember that you are subject to the same rules as attorneys, and understanding your responsibilities can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

At Golden Key Law Group, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate, personalized legal guidance through every step of your family law case. Our experienced attorneys are committed to ensuring your rights are protected while striving to find the best solutions for you and your family. We understand the emotional complexities of family law matters, and we work diligently to offer clarity, support, and a strategic approach to achieving your goals. Whether you’re navigating divorce, child custody, or asset division, we are here to guide you with integrity and professionalism. Let us help you unlock a path toward a brighter, more secure future.