15 Common Divorce Mistakes

Not keeping a journal

A divorce turns your world upside down, leaving your feelings scrambled and your head spinning. On top of all of the emotional turmoil, you're pummeled with lawyers, legal papers and court hearings. This is a time when, sometimes, "you forget stuff," says Judith Briles, author of The Dollars and Sense of Divorce. "It might be a smart thing to keep a journal to channel some of your anger and frustration instead of venting to a lawyer who's happy to hear your problems—and charge you for it." Aside from protecting your wallet, a journal can help you keep track of the terms of your settlement so if there is a violation in the future, you'll have a clear recollection of the proceedings.