In our last post, we outlined how a divorce typically proceeds. While it’s helpful to gain an understanding of the legal divorce process, it’s important to keep in mind that, at any point, issues may arise that can delay the process. Most frequently, delays are related to one spouse’s objections to the other spouse’s responses to a complaint or occur during settlement negotiations. When disputes arise during a divorce, if not handled appropriately, the whole process can quickly be derailed and grow contentious.
While it may seem nearly impossible to do so, divorcing individuals are advised to do their best to keep emotions in check. Yes, essentially your entire future and those of your children are dependent upon the outcome of a divorce settlement. However, viewing a soon-to-be ex-spouse as an adversary can interfere with one’s ability to see and understand the bigger picture and may lead one to act or react solely based on emotions.
Maintaining one’s composure throughout the divorce process is especially important in cases where minor-aged children are involved. For better or worse, children forever bind exes together and it’s important that divorced parents are able to effectively communicate and get along for the sake of shared children. Not allowing oneself to be ruled by negative emotions is also important for one’s own psyche and staying focused and in control can also be incredibly empowering.
In addition to dealing with the emotional challenges of a divorce, an individual must also deal with negotiating financial aspects that can positively or negatively impact one’s future. When it comes to negotiating matters related to the division of property, assets and debts; it’s important to fully disclose any and all information that may be pertinent to a final decision.
Yes, the divorce process can be difficult and overwhelming. For these reasons, it’s extremely important to retain an attorney who can answer questions, provide advice and represent one’s best interests when negotiating terms related to child custody and the division of assets.
Source: FindLaw.com, “The Divorce Process: Do’s and Don’ts,” 2015
