When people go through divorce, some can be tempted to stray from the truth. They might do so out of fears about their financial future, worry for the children or bitterness toward an ex.
However, lying during a divorce is never a good idea. Not only can it be illegal, lying can derail the process, leading to expensive litigation and unfavorable outcomes. Below are some tips to prevent lies, fabrications, non-disclosures and half-truths from interfering in an Illinois divorce.
- Get everything in writing. Retain documentation of financial transactions, conversations with your ex and anything else that could affect your case. Having such information in writing can prevent miscommunications and inaccuracies later on.
- Stick to the facts. Divorce is a highly emotional process, but it is important to rely on objective data when discussing matters like property division and child support. When it comes to more emotional topics like child custody, do not fabricate stories or misrepresent yourself or your ex. Doing so could wind up hurting you or your children more than anyone else.
- Make it official. Some people attempt to reach informal agreements to save money or because they think it will be easier. However, if you do not create and comply with official legal orders, it could be very easy for one party to go back on his or her word or violate the agreement without penalty.
- Don’t overshare on social media. Some people find solace venting on social media. There are also people who turn to Facebook or other sites to garner support from others or make themselves feel better. To accomplish this, they might lie about their divorce, defame their ex or misrepresent certain situations. This is not harmless, though. Your social media activity could be used against you during divorce, especially if it reveals that you have been dishonest in mediation or court sessions.
One other suggestion is to work with an attorney who can counsel you through your divorce and help you pursue a fair outcome based on facts. A legal representative can also enlist legal resources to uncover false statements and negotiate settlements based on objective information and your best interests.
