Meriwether & Tharp, LLC
6788799000 Meriwether & Tharp, LLC 6465 East Johns Crossing; Suite 400 Varied
If you have divorce questions

What to Do When Your Divorce Takes a Sudden Turn

Publish Date: 06/02/2025

Logic Over Emotions

Divorces are rarely calm and predictable. Emotions often run high, and things can escalate quickly. When the situation takes a sudden turn for the worse, here is how to protect yourself until you can get your attorney involved.

1. If the Police Call, Stay Calm and Say Nothing

If a detective or police officer contacts you to ask questions regarding an incident related to your crumbling marriage, do not try to clarify the situation. Politely tell the police or detective that you do not feel comfortable talking about the incident without your attorney present.

Because of the Fifth Amendment, you cannot be compelled to testify against yourself. The police may try to get you to admit something that could later be used against you. Instead, you should contact a criminal defense attorney, who can communicate with law enforcement on your behalf. Be polite and respectful to the police, but not overly cooperative.

2. When the Other Parent Threatens to Move the Kids

If your co-parent suddenly says they're moving out of state with the kids, act immediately. Don't wait. File a case to trigger a standing order, which in many Georgia counties prevents either parent from removing the children from the jurisdiction. Until you file, both parents have equal rights to custody of the children and there is no kidnapping.

Once a case has been filed, you can request an emergency or temporary order to stop them from moving away with the children. Even if the other parent does leave the jurisdiction with the children, the UCCJEA can help you get a court order requiring the children's return to the state, as long as you have lived in Georgia for at least six months.

3. Handling Violations of the Court Order

If there are any court orders in place, you need to make sure you are following the court's orders. Any actions made in violation of the court's orders can hurt your case and put you in contempt of court.

If the other parent denies your parenting time, document everything. Gather texts, emails, or messages showing your efforts to peacefully resolve the situation. Only then should you consider involving the police.

If the other parent fails to pay court-ordered child support, you cannot retaliate by denying their court-ordered parenting time. You can hire an attorney to file a motion for contempt or contact the Child Support Services.

4. Protecting Your Financial Security

If your spouse cuts you off financially, consider borrowing money from friends or family to hire an attorney and file an emergency motion with the court. Georgia courts can order temporary child support, alimony, and attorney's fees.

If you legally have access to a joint account, you can move funds into your own separate account, but don't deplete marital money by making extravagant purchases. Only use what you need to live.

If you're worried your spouse might drain marital assets, take photos, create an inventory, and file for divorce to get a standing order in place.

5. Keep Your Emotions in Check


No matter how angry or provoked you feel, your reaction matters. Losing control can be used against you in court. Stay calm, document everything, and let your attorney guide you.

When things get crazy during a divorce, your best defense is to stay quiet, act quickly, document everything, and seek legal help as soon as possible.

Categories:

Divorce Process
Back to Blog