The Most Overlooked Legal Risk in Divorce

Divorce Kathleen Magat May 21, 2025

When people think about the legal risks of divorce, their minds go straight to custody battles, support disputes, or the courtroom itself.

But there’s another area—often seen as “just paperwork”—that quietly holds enormous financial and legal consequences: the house.

Here’s the truth most people don’t talk about:

  • The real estate side of divorce can derail a case faster than the legal side.
  • And it usually starts with one misstep: hiring the wrong agent.

Why Is Real Estate During Divorce So Fragile?

Because it isn’t just a sale—it’s a court-sensitive process tied to emotion, timing, and often a deep sense of loss. The house represents more than equity. It represents stability, memory, and control. And when both parties have a legal right to it, things get complicated fast.

If one person refuses to sign documents…

If there’s a restraining order tied to the home…

If communication between parties is strained or volatile…

The entire transaction can stall—and in some cases, collapse completely.

Where Things Go Wrong

Here’s what often triggers issues:

  • A non-neutral agent: One who favors a spouse, even unintentionally, breaks trust instantly.

  • No legal literacy: Court orders, MSAs, and restraining orders aren’t optional—they’re binding.

  • Assumptions about title or equity: Without proper due diligence, surprises arise mid-sale.

  • Poor communication: If both parties aren’t kept equally informed, everything gets questioned.

There’s a Better Way

Real estate during divorce requires someone trained to stay neutral, communicate strategically, and protect equity without inflaming conflict. It’s not about being “good at selling homes.” It’s about understanding the intersection of law, money, and emotion.

Want to See How It Works?

I created a short, attorney-facing guide that explains the structure I follow to keep transactions compliant, calm, and on track.

Click here.

Whether you’re a legal professional or simply supporting someone navigating this path, knowing what to watch for makes all the difference.

Work With Kathleen

Kathleen is the top real estate agent in her brokerage. She has built her business building long-term relationships and being a resource for her clients before, during and after the transaction. As a member of the Meta Realty team, she offers her clients almost two decades of real estate experience.