MANHATTAN, NY - Divorce proceedings in New York carry long-term consequences for finances, custody rights, and property ownership, and the decisions individuals make while a case is pending can significantly affect the outcome. Manhattan divorce attorney Juan Luciano of Juan Luciano Divorce Lawyer (https://divorcelawfirmnyc.com/5-things-you-should-not-do-during-a-divorce/) is outlining seven critical mistakes that can undermine a divorce case and offering guidance on how to avoid them.
According to Manhattan divorce attorney Juan Luciano, one of the most damaging errors involves concealing, transferring, or retitling assets during divorce proceedings. Under New York Domestic Relations Law (DRL) § 236(B), marital property is divided through equitable distribution, and courts take a dim view of attempts to hide financial resources. "When a spouse attempts to conceal assets or move funds to a third party, the court may respond by awarding a larger share of the known property to the other side," explains Luciano. "Transparency throughout the financial disclosure process is essential to maintaining credibility with the judge."
Manhattan divorce attorney Juan Luciano also emphasizes that hostile communication between spouses can carry serious consequences, particularly in custody disputes. New York family courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child, and a parent's ability to cooperate with the other party is a significant factor in that analysis. Threatening or harassing messages submitted as evidence may result in reduced parenting time, supervised visitation, or orders of protection.
Attorney Luciano notes that involving children in adult disputes is another mistake that can harm both the child's well-being and a parent's custody case. Judges in the New York County Supreme Court and Family Court evaluate whether each parent fosters a healthy relationship between the child and the other parent. Using children as messengers, asking them to take sides, or sharing negative opinions about a co-parent can be viewed as parental alienation and may lead to unfavorable custody evaluations.
The financial dimension of divorce is another area where missteps frequently occur. Under DRL § 236(B), courts divide marital property based on factors including each spouse's income, the length of the marriage, and future financial circumstances. "Pursuing vindication through prolonged litigation often costs far more than the disputed issues are worth," advises Luciano. "Mediation and collaborative approaches allow both parties to maintain greater control over the outcome while reducing legal expenses." The New York County Supreme Court offers resources including an Early Settlement Program to help facilitate resolution.
Luciano points out that beginning a new romantic relationship while a divorce is pending can create complications across multiple areas of a case. Spending marital funds on a new partner may be classified as dissipation of marital assets under DRL § 236(B)(5)(d), potentially affecting property distribution. A new relationship can also increase conflict between the parties and push a case toward contested litigation.
Social media activity presents additional risks during divorce proceedings. Courts in Manhattan and throughout New York City have admitted posts, photos, check-ins, and private messages as evidence to challenge claims about finances and parenting fitness. Deleting content after a case has been filed may constitute spoliation of evidence, which can result in court-imposed sanctions. "Individuals going through a divorce should assume that anything posted on social media could appear in a courtroom," notes Attorney Luciano. "The safest approach is to limit online activity and consult with legal counsel before sharing any content publicly."
Withholding information from a divorce attorney is equally problematic. New York divorce proceedings require extensive financial disclosures, including Statements of Net Worth under 22 NYCRR § 202.16, and undisclosed assets or debts can surface during discovery or cross-examination. Attorney-client privilege protects communications between a client and their lawyer, making full transparency essential to building an effective legal strategy.
The team at Juan Luciano Divorce Lawyer also cautions against leaving the marital home before a divorce is finalized. A departure may be interpreted as a lack of commitment to the children's daily routines, and maintaining two separate households increases financial strain. Under DRL § 236(B)(6), the court may consider a spouse's ability to support two residences when calculating maintenance obligations. Vacating the home can also influence a judge's decision regarding who retains the residence, particularly when children are involved.
For those navigating a divorce in New York, consulting with an experienced family law attorney can help protect financial interests, custody rights, and long-term stability. Contacting a divorce attorney early in the process may help individuals avoid costly mistakes and work toward a fair resolution.
About Juan Luciano Divorce Lawyer:
Juan Luciano Divorce Lawyer is a Manhattan-based family law firm focused on divorce, custody, equitable distribution, and spousal maintenance matters. Led by attorney Juan Luciano, who holds over two decades of experience and has been certified by the Appellate Division First Judicial Department to represent both children and adults in family law proceedings, the firm serves clients throughout New York City with offices in Midtown Manhattan and the Bronx. For consultations, call (212) 537-5859.
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