A Separation Lawyer Shares: What You Should Not Do When Separating

When it comes to separating from a partner, there are lots of things that need to be considered, especially if there are children or shared property involved.

It’s also often an emotionally overwhelming time, and it can be difficult not to get caught up in small, unimportant details. Your best outcomes will come from knowing what steps to take and how to do so without negatively impacting any legal issues or escalating conflict between you and your ex-spouse.

In the past, we’ve answered your most asked questions, as well as how to prepare to separate emotionally and financially; here’s our separation lawyer’s guide on what not to do when separating.

Don’t Not Get Legal Advice – and Do it Before You Separate

First and foremost, we recommend getting legal advice from a separation lawyer if you are considering separating. A separation lawyer can help you with any paperwork, advise on deadlines and assist with submissions, and help to alleviate some of the stress of negotiations and property settlements.

Seeing a separation lawyer before you separate can also help you avoid some potential disasters; what you do in the lead up to, and during separation can be a determining factor in the outcome of any legal disputes between you and your ex-partner.

Don’t Post About Your Relationship Issues on Facebook or Instagram

We’ve all seen posts from friends or acquaintances airing their dirty laundry on Facebook and immediately felt uncomfortable.

Apart from receiving unwanted advice or judgemental comments from people who have limited knowledge about your situation, it can also increase tension between you and your partner, and those closest to you who may feel forced to take a side or comment.

If you need someone to talk to, it is best to reach out and seek guidance from an independent third party; this might be in the form of a psychologist or counsellor. If you can talk to your partner safely and calmly in private about any issues you are having between the two of you, it’s also best to do that.

Don’t Stay Silent if You Require Help

If you are at risk, or a victim, of domestic violence, our team of separation lawyers advise you need to seek help urgently.

Phone Triple Zero (000) if DFV (domestic family violence) is happening now or if your life or child’s life is in immediate danger.

If there is no immediate emergency, you can report DFV to the police by phoning Policelink on 13 14 44 or by submitting an online form.

If you need to escape and require somewhere safe, contact DVConnect on 1800 811 811

Don’t Move the Children Interstate Without Your Ex Partner’s Consent

Relocating your children without consent would likely lead them to them filing a court application against you, forcing their return to Queensland.

While this could negatively impact any legal issues pertaining to your children, it could also irrevocably impact the relationship with your partner and cause the children distress.

In doing so, you may be negating any future opportunity for cooperation and respectful communication when it comes to making decisions in regards to the children’s needs.

Don’t Be Unwilling to Compromise

While emotions may be at an all-time high, our separation lawyer suggests you keep sight of what is important in the long-term when trying to navigate issues with your ex-partner.

For most people, there is a shared goal of being able to move on independently, and to ensure the continued happiness of the children, and this is typically only achieved when both parties are willing to compromise.

Digging your heels achieves very little; in fact, it’s likely to only increase the need for litigation, and escalate delays, legal fees, and stress.

Need Assistance? Speak To a Separation Lawyer at Pullos Lawyers

If you are looking to separate from your partner, a Pullos separation lawyer can help. Our team of experienced family lawyers can help you navigate this emotionally difficult and complex time in your life with compassion, understanding, and years of experience dealing with a rage of sensitive family law matters. These matters include De Facto & Same Sex Law, Spousal Maintenance, and International Family Law and much more. Please get in touch via email, or call us in our Gold Coast office on (07) 5526 3646, or our Brisbane office on (07) 3144 1641.