Getting a divorce is like ripping out a part of your soul. One moment, you and your loved one are standing at the altar, staring into each other’s eyes, and the next, you’re trying to divvy up your belongings and come to a custody agreement.
It’s something that almost half of all married couples will experience at some point, and if both of you aren’t careful, the hurt you’re feeling could bubble up into the divorce proceedings and make things so much harder.
So what do you do when you’re trapped in a nasty divorce?
Keep reading to learn how you can navigate these rough waters.
Think About Filing First
Whether you and your partner have agreed to divorce or one party wants out, the person who files for divorce has a few key advantages.
First, filing for divorce yourself allows you to better control the situation. This is particularly important if you need to find a new place to live, open up new bank accounts, or gather evidence you intend to use against your spouse.
The partner who doesn’t file first is required to respond within 20 days, which isn’t a lot of time, especially when you’re struggling with the emotional fallout of a dissolved relationship.
By filing first, you won’t have to stick to such a rigid timeline. The ball is in your court.
Limit Your Contact
The cat’s out of the bag and now you and your spouse have to somehow coexist until the divorce is settled. How exactly does that work?
For starters, only stay under the same roof if you have to. Aside from limiting awkward encounters with your partner, having space from one another grants both partners plenty of breathing room to think about the divorce case.
You’ll also want to keep your contact as limited as possible. Only communicate when there’s no other choice, such as when a child is involved or your spouse has documents you need.
Fight Fair
Given the emotional turbulence you’re both experiencing, don’t be surprised if your partner takes a combative tone to coax you into an argument.
As cathartic as it may be to tell your spouse off, doing so won’t help anything. If you do find yourself in the middle of a verbal sparring match with your former partner, aim above the belt.
Arguments should only pertain to the topic at hand. Avoid bringing up the past, using hurtful language, or taking cheap shots at your partner’s insecurities.
How to Handle a Nasty Divorce Without Losing Your Dignity
If you have to divorce, divorce with dignity. These tips should keep you poised, even in the midst of a nasty divorce.
By keeping these tips in mind and finding a strong support system, you’ll be one step closer to better days.
For more tips on navigating some of life’s toughest situations, be sure to check back with our blog, where we have tons of great content.
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