Divorce is rarely easy, but avoiding common mistakes can help make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful for everyone involved. At Rowlinsons Solicitors, our Family Law team supports clients through every stage of separation, and we've seen first-hand how certain missteps can cause unnecessary delays, conflict, and cost.
Here are some of the most common mistakes people make during divorce—and how to avoid them.
1. Rushing the Process
Divorce is not something to be rushed. While it's understandable to want to move on, making hasty decisions—especially around finances or children—can have long-term consequences. Take the time to fully understand your legal position and get proper advice before signing anything.
2. Not Getting Legal Advice Early On
Some people believe they can manage everything themselves, but even the most amicable divorces benefit from professional legal advice. You may not realise what you're entitled to, or what risks you're taking. Speaking to a solicitor early can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure everything is handled properly from the start.
3. Failing to Formalise Financial Agreements
One of the biggest errors we see is couples who reach a financial agreement informally but never make it legally binding. Without a Consent Order, there’s nothing to stop your ex from making a financial claim years down the line—even if you’ve both moved on.
At Rowlinsons, we’ll ensure any financial settlement is properly drafted and approved by the court to give you long-term security.
4. Letting Emotions Take Over
Divorce is emotional, but decisions should be made with your head, not just your heart. Trying to ‘win’ or punish your ex can often backfire, particularly when it comes to arrangements for children or the division of assets. Focus on what’s fair, not what feels like revenge.
5. Using Children as Bargaining Chips
Children are not leverage. Involving them in adult disputes or using them to gain the upper hand in negotiations can cause long-term emotional harm. The court's priority will always be the child’s best interests—and so should yours.
We can help you work out practical and child-focused arrangements that support stability and wellbeing.
6. Hiding Assets or Being Dishonest
Trying to hide assets, undervalue income, or mislead your ex-partner can seriously damage your case and lead to penalties in court. Full financial disclosure is not only a legal requirement—it’s essential for achieving a fair outcome.
7. Not Updating Your Will and Finances
Once you're divorced, you’ll want to update your Will, insurance policies, and pensions to reflect your new circumstances. Forgetting to do this could mean your ex still benefits from your estate, even if you’re no longer together.
Get Expert Help From Rowlinsons
Every divorce is different, but avoiding these common mistakes can make a real difference to your experience—and your future.
At Rowlinsons Solicitors, our specialist Family Law team offers clear, practical advice and compassionate support tailored to your situation. Whether you’re just starting to consider divorce or are already partway through, we’re here to help you get it right.
Call us on 01928 735 333 to book an appointment.