Want to fast track your divorce? Avoid these 4 pitfalls

We have all read news stories about divorces that drag on for months or even years. This can lead people to expect that a long, drawn out process stands between them and a new chapter in life. However, it does not have to be this way.

If you are considering divorce or are in the process of filing for divorce, you should know that you can take steps to expedite the split. Alternatively, you can do things (intentionally or not) that create delays and prolong the California divorce process. If you are hoping for a swift divorce, then you would be wise to avoid the following four missteps.

1. Refusing to compromise: There are many opportunities for divorcing spouses to compromise in the interest of resolving an issue, from dividing assets to assigning holidays for a parenting plan. If you refuse to give and insist on taking at every turn, you could be creating more problems that take more time to solve.
2. Failing to act: Over the course of a divorce, you will likely be presented with requests for financial information, proposals for parenting plans and questions about certain assets. The longer you take to respond, the longer it will take to resolve those matters.
3. Giving up on mediation: Working together through mediation can be a real challenge for divorcing spouses. However, throwing in the towel too early and insisting on litigation can extend the process, as litigation typically takes longer than options like mediation.
4. Refusing to consider, in addition to mediation, using the collaborative divorce process in which a divorcing couple, together with trained professionals,, work as a team to resolve disputes respectfully, without going to court.

There are other obstacles and hiccups that can draw out a divorce, but these are all decisions and actions over which you have control. If you really do want to expedite your divorce, then you would be wise to avoid these pitfalls.

However, keep in mind that a swift divorce should not come at the expense of a fair and equitable divorce. You still have rights to protect. This is why it can be a good idea to work through the process with an experienced family law attorney. An attorney can help you seek a fair divorce settlement while also keeping track of deadlines and navigating the complicated legal system in a more efficient manner.