Anyone in Virginia who is divorced or who is currently going through a divorce understands how difficult it can be. No matter how necessary a divorce may be, it can still be an emotional process. If you are in the middle of the process, however, it is important to keep your emotions in check. Inappropriate behavior could be used against you in court.
A good rule of thumb is to imagine that anything you do could be presented before a judge or your ex’s attorney. Even though it can be tempting to leave your ex an angry voice mail or say negative things about your ex to your kids or others in your community, it is best to avoid either of these scenarios and others that could make you appear reckless.
It is also important to keep in mind that the things you say to your ex or others are not the only things that could be used against you in court. Your actions can also create an image — accurate or not — of who you are as a person. If you’re fighting for custody of your children, for example, it is important to be on your best behavior.
Consider this example: Many people like to blow off steam with a drink or two. Being arrested for drunk driving, however, can paint a very negative picture of your character — and your ex and his or her attorney may try to use it as evidence that you are not fit to be a custodial parent.
Divorce is not always an easy process, and containing your emotions can be hard sometimes. It is important to remember, however, that some behaviors can have extremely negative consequences in a divorce. Venting to a close friend is almost always better than venting to your ex.
Source: Huffington Post, “Newly Separated? Don’t Do Anything Stupid!” Jackie Pilossoph, April 7, 2014