Divorcing your spouse is often a long, emotional, complex process that saps you of time, energy, and money. Despite most divorces being emotionally tumultuous, you aren’t afforded much reprieve; there is little to no grace for you if you make a mistake.

Here’s why you should behave as if someone is watching your every move during your Long Island divorce and what you can do to protect your legal rights and best interests from a spouse who may attempt to make you look like someone you’re not.

Your Every Interaction May Be Monitored During Divorce

There’s a good chance you’ll be watched during your divorce. Where you go, what you do, and who you see may be information that your ex-spouse regularly seeks out. If they obtain any evidence that can be used against you, this could radically damage your case.

Behaviors to Avoid and Correct During Divorce

As you begin the Long Island divorce process, you should review your behavior and actions for anything that needs correction before the divorce gets underway. Make an effort to avoid or correct behaviors that could have a serious negative impact on the outcome of your divorce, such as:

• Drinking or drug use. Avoid using alcohol or drugs during your divorce. If do you consume alcohol or drugs, now is the time to stop. It may seem harmless to enjoy a bottle of wine on a Friday night, but this can be dangerous if you have any history of drug or alcohol use or your spouse is likely to lie or exaggerate about your activities.
• Arguing and fighting. It’s critical that you avoid yelling, arguing, or fighting with your soon-to-be-ex-spouse, especially if you have children. Not only will this impact their wellbeing, but it could also give your ex-spouse ammunition to use against you in a false domestic violence claim.
• Being alone with your ex-spouse. If you need to meet with your ex, be sure to do so in a public place or with a friend or family member present. Don’t allow yourself to be alone with them; there will be no witnesses to refute any claims of domestic abuse, and it will be your word against your ex-spouse’s.

Other Important Tips to Keep In Mind During Your Divorce

There are many things you should do in addition to what you shouldn’t. These tips can help strengthen your divorce case and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

You may want to consider:

• Seeing a qualified counselor or therapist. Proactively seeking out emotional and mental health support during your divorce shows that you’re aware of the potential impact of the split on your emotional and physical wellbeing and are taking steps to prevent potential problems. If you have children, you can encourage them to see a therapist or counselor who can help them process difficult emotions about the divorce.
• Mediation or collaborative divorce. If you and your ex-spouse are at least on speaking terms, you may want to think through the options of divorce mediation or collaborative divorce. Both offer a resolution for the end of your marriage without having to engage in divorce litigation.
• Keeping records of every conversation or interaction with your ex-spouse. If possible, obtain audio or video recordings of interactions between you and your ex. If your ex sends messages or emails, make copies and keep them in a safe place that only you have access to, ideally somewhere outside the home if you are still living with your spouse.

Learn the Top 12 Smart Long Island Divorce Strategies.

How a Skilled Long Island Divorce Law Firm Can Help You

If you’re considering divorce as an option or were served divorce papers by your spouse, it’s important that you don’t wait to consult with a seasoned Long Island divorce attorney about your case. This is especially true if your spouse has made the first move and you only have a certain amount of time to respond to the petition.

Hornberger Verbitsky, P.C. can help you protect what is rightfully yours during your divorce and ensure that you’re doing everything you can to pursue the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us today for an initial consultation by calling 631-923-1910 or fill out the short form on this page.