If you’re thinking about divorce, the choices you make before filing for divorce can have a lasting impact on your finances, your children, and your case. Before moving out, transferring money, posting on social media, or making major life changes, it’s worth understanding how those decisions could affect your future. A conversation with an experienced Florida family law attorney early in the process can help you avoid mistakes that are difficult to undo.
Key Takeaways
- Don’t make major financial decisions without legal advice.
- Think carefully before moving out of the marital home.
- Never hide or dispose of assets.
- Be cautious about what you post on social media.
- Avoid making emotional decisions that could affect your case.
- Gather important financial documents early.
- Speaking with a divorce attorney before filing can save time, money, and stress.
Table of Contents
- Why the Decisions You Make Now Matter
- Don’t Empty the Joint Bank Account
- Don’t Move Out Without Understanding the Consequences
- Don’t Hide Money or Property
- Don’t Start a New Relationship Too Soon
- Don’t Vent on Social Media
- Don’t Throw Away Important Financial Documents
- Don’t Take Legal Advice From Friends
- What You Should Do Instead
- Frequently Asked Questions
- About Farber Law
- Schedule a Consultation
Why the Decisions You Make Now Matter
Divorce rarely begins the day someone files paperwork.
For many people, it starts months earlier with difficult conversations, sleepless nights, and questions they aren’t sure how to answer.
Should I move out?
Can I open my own bank account?
Should I tell the kids?
What if my spouse is hiding money?
It’s completely normal to have these questions. The challenge is that well-meaning advice from friends, family, or the internet isn’t always accurate.
The decisions you make before filing can affect your finances, your parenting plan, and even how smoothly your case moves forward.
Here are seven common mistakes to avoid.
1. Don’t Empty the Joint Bank Account
One of the biggest misconceptions is that if your name is on a joint account, you should immediately withdraw all the money before your spouse does.
While either spouse may have access to a joint account, draining it without careful consideration can create additional conflict and may become an issue during the divorce.
Instead, focus on understanding your financial situation and documenting account balances.
If you’re worried your spouse may misuse marital funds, speak with an attorney before making significant financial decisions.
2. Don’t Move Out Without Understanding the Consequences
Many people assume moving out is the quickest way to reduce tension.
Sometimes it is.
Sometimes it isn’t.
Leaving the marital home can have practical implications involving parenting schedules, finances, and living arrangements.
Every family’s situation is different.
Before packing boxes, it’s worth understanding how that decision could affect your goals moving forward.
3. Don’t Hide Money or Property
Moving money into secret accounts.
Giving valuable items to relatives.
Transferring assets to friends.
These ideas occasionally show up in movies.
They rarely end well in real life.
Florida law requires financial disclosure during divorce proceedings, and attempts to conceal assets can damage your credibility and complicate your case.
Honesty and proper legal guidance are almost always the better strategy.
4. Don’t Start a New Relationship Too Soon
Divorce is an emotional process.
It’s understandable to want to move forward with your life.
However, beginning a new relationship before your divorce is finalized can sometimes increase conflict or create unnecessary complications, especially if children are involved.
Even when it doesn’t directly affect the legal issues, it can influence negotiations and emotions.
Sometimes patience is the smartest legal strategy.
5. Don’t Vent on Social Media
This may be the hardest advice to follow.
When you’re frustrated, posting online can feel like an easy way to release stress.
Unfortunately, social media posts often live much longer than the emotions that inspired them.
Photos.
Comments.
Private messages.
Videos.
Even jokes.
Depending on the circumstances, online activity may become relevant during a divorce.
Before posting, ask yourself one simple question:
Would I be comfortable explaining this post in a courtroom?
If the answer is no, it probably doesn’t belong online.
6. Don’t Throw Away Important Financial Documents
If you’re considering divorce, now is the time to become organized.
Gather copies of important records such as:
- Tax returns
- Bank statements
- Retirement account statements
- Mortgage documents
- Credit card statements
- Insurance information
- Business records, if applicable
Having complete financial information helps you and your attorney understand the full picture before important decisions need to be made.
7. Don’t Take Legal Advice From Friends
Everyone seems to know someone who has been divorced.
That doesn’t mean their experience applies to yours.
Florida family law cases are unique because every family, every financial situation, and every parenting arrangement is different.
What worked for your neighbor, coworker, or cousin may not be the right approach for you.
The internet is full of opinions.
Your case deserves legal advice based on your specific circumstances.
What You Should Do Instead
If you’re thinking about divorce, the best first step isn’t making dramatic changes.
It’s gathering information.
Understand your finances.
Protect important documents.
Stay calm.
Avoid impulsive decisions.
Most importantly, speak with an experienced family law attorney before making choices that could affect your future.
A little planning today can prevent unnecessary stress tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I open a separate bank account before filing for divorce?
Many people choose to establish their own financial accounts as they prepare for separation. The right approach depends on your individual circumstances, so it’s best to discuss your situation with an attorney before making significant financial changes.
Can I move out before filing?
Sometimes yes, but it’s important to understand how moving may affect parenting arrangements, finances, and your overall strategy before making that decision.
Can my social media really be used in a divorce?
Depending on the circumstances, social media content may become relevant in family law cases. It’s wise to think carefully before posting during a divorce.
Should I tell my children before filing?
Every family is different. Parents often benefit from discussing the timing and approach with experienced professionals before having those conversations.
Do I need an attorney before I file?
Speaking with an attorney early can help you understand your rights, avoid common mistakes, and make informed decisions before the legal process begins.
About Farber Law
At Farber Law, P.A., Helena Farber understands that divorce isn’t just a legal process. It’s a major life transition.
Her approach combines practical legal guidance with compassionate support, helping clients make informed decisions while protecting what matters most.
Whether your case involves children, complex financial issues, or mediation, Farber Law is committed to helping you move forward with confidence.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re considering divorce and have questions about what to do before filing, speaking with an experienced family law attorney can help you understand your options before small decisions become larger problems.
Contact Farber Law, P.A. to schedule a confidential consultation and develop a strategy that protects your future.
About the Author: Helena Y. Farber is an attorney in Aventura, Florida, whose practice is concentrated on divorce and family law. She can be reached at (305) 520-9205 or via email at hyf@farberlawpa.com.
Disclaimer: This blog is provided solely for educational reasons and to provide you with general information and a general grasp of the law, not to provide particular legal advice. By using this blog site, you acknowledge that you and the blog do not have an attorney-client relationship. The Blog is not intended to replace competent legal counsel from a certified professional attorney in your state.