Often, during a divorce, spouses’ decision-making is clouded by emotions. People who have never been on the wrong side of the law often find themselves doing and saying things that are completely out of character. Pain and disappointment can manifest themselves in a variety of ways.
Mistakes made during divorce proceedings can have drastic consequences. Divorce is difficult for anyone, but it becomes even more complicated when one or both parties make mistakes that could potentially result in criminal charges.
Actions to avoid in a divorce
Divorcing spouses make mistakes all the time, but you can avoid them by knowing about them and doing the following:
- Property damage: The emotional pain of separation and divorce has led many to retaliate out of revenge. If tempted to damage your soon-to-be ex’s personal property, don’t. Criminal charges will not help the situation.
- Breaking and entering: You may be tempted to enter your ex’s new residence to reclaim your property. There is a legal way to recover your personal property, but breaking and entering is not the solution you are looking for.
- Hiding assets and property: Many have been tempted to hide or even waste funds, properties, and assets when facing property division and spousal support. This can be considered a criminal offense and should be avoided.
- Taking the children out of state: When children are involved in a divorce, it can be criminal if one parent relocates them across state lines without permission.
- Making threats: Threatening your ex with words or actions that make them fearful for their safety can result in assault charges.
These may seem like common sense tips, but people often do things that they wouldn’t normally do when going through a divorce.
You’ll want to carefully choose how to proceed when facing family law and divorce proceedings in Virginia so that you don’t jeopardize your case.