Houston Family Law & Divorce Attorneys

Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny
Call Today! 713.936.2300
  • Home
  • Firm Overview
  • Attorneys
  • Divorce
  • Family Law
  • Estate Planning
  • Blog
  • Contact Us
  • Call Today
  • Email Us
  • Our Map
  • Menu
Blog 2018 April 4 Common Divorce Mistakes Fathers Need To Avoid
Previous Post  |  Next Post

4 Common Divorce Mistakes Fathers Need To Avoid

Posted By Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny || 9-Apr-2018

The divorce process is hard for both parents, and figuring out how to handle your own emotions while also providing support for your kids can be extremely taxing. On top of the emotional stress, you have to deal with the financial strain and the endless list of obligations regarding court dates, financial statements, temporary custody, and other key documents and details. Both parents should be extremely vigilant about avoiding any potential divorce mistakes, as it could lead to unfair custody arrangements, property division, or support arrangements.

In some situations, fathers may be at a disadvantage when it comes to divorce issues involving their children, especially if the mother acts as the primary caretaker or stays at home with the kids. Even though Texas courts are much better about treating each parent equally, mothers are sometimes favored when it comes to custody arrangements.

In order to improve your chances in court and to help your children through the divorce process, make sure you do what you can to avoid these key mistakes many fathers make:

1. Not Focusing On the Kids

Remember to prioritize your kids during this difficult time. As stressed and overwhelmed as you probably feel, try to remember how difficult this is for your children as well. Make time for outings with them and make a point to continue carving out time for them, even when you’re busy with work and divorce details. Try to make your private time about fun and relaxation, maybe taking them on outings you all enjoyed before the divorce. But, also, remember to ask them about how they’re dealing with everything. They might not want to talk, but just make sure you keep the lines of communication open.

2. Using Children as Leverage

Even though you may say you would never use your children as leverage, it might happen without you fully realizing what you’re doing. When you’re negotiating with your spouse in court or during mediation, make sure you remember to think of your children’s best interest, rather than thinking of how you can get the upper hand. For example, if you know your spouse wants full custody, and use that knowledge to work in more assets or other concessions for yourself, you’ve just used your kids as leverage over your spouse. It can be hard to avoid doing this, especially if your spouse is especially contentious or difficult, but try to think about your kids’ welfare separately, and make their happiness and health a priority.

3. Trying To Win

When your spouse is being particularly difficult or contentious, it can be very hard not to see the divorce as a competition, especially if you go to court. The courtroom naturally tends to pit spouses against one another, and it can make tense relationships even more hostile and bitter. Try your best to think about what is fair and right, especially where your kids are concerned, rather than trying to “win” against your soon-to-be ex-wife.

4. Failing To Focus On Finances

It’s a hard line to walk, balancing your priorities between your family and your finances. However, it is crucial that you make time for both. Your kids need you, but you also need to make sure you’re being mindful of your current and futures spending and any additional expenses that may be headed your way. Fathers pay child support and spousal support more frequently than mothers do, so it is crucial that you prepare for this possibility and discuss it with your attorney. Make sure you can afford it, and set yourself up for any additional expenses coming your way. Also, the divorce process itself can be costly, so focus on your current financial situation and make sure you’re in a good position to take on any legal bills or new living expenses if you leave the marital home.

Contact the Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny to discuss your divorce with our Houston divorce lawyers.

Categories: Divorce, Family Law

Share Post

Divorce

How Can We Help You?

  • Child Custody
  • Child Support
  • Contested Divorce
  • Collaborative Divorce
  • Divorce Mediation
  • High-Net Worth Divorce
  • Property Division
  • Spousal Maintenance
  • Uncontested Divorce
  • Visitation

Contact The Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny

Put More Than Three Decades Of Experience To Work For You

Send My Information
  • Home
  • Site Map
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact Us
Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny
Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny - Houston Family Law Attorney
14701 St. Mary's Lane, Suite 315, Houston, TX 77079 View Map
Main (713) 936-2300
Website: https://www.marteenylaw.com
© 2019 All Rights Reserved.
Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny @MartyeenyLaw
map of location
Internet Marketing Experts