Not everything in life is about monetary loss or gain. For some, ending a marriage suggests one party is the victor, and the other is not. However, a high-conflict divorce isn’t just about hitting the checkbook hard. The price you could pay could change your life forever.
The first thing you might think about when it comes to a high-conflict divorce is retaining the services of an experienced family law attorney. Someone with good intentions may prod you into finding legal counsel with strong “bulldog” tendencies.
No doubt finding someone to wage a war on your behalf certainly sounds like a great idea. However, you should proceed with caution. Some lawyers will add to an already combustible situation and watch it explode.
There are all kinds of ways to handle high-conflict situations. Surely, no one should be forced to sit back and take abuse from a narcissistic spouse. After all, it takes plenty of courage to escape someone when they’re treating you less than human.
Dealing with emotional abuse of any kind can be challenging. Your focus needs to be on what will happen when the divorce is said and done. Maintaining calm and resisting the urge to fight may seem like a never-ending battle.
For parents, the process becomes even more difficult. On the one hand, it’s a matter of protecting children and showing them their value. On the other hand, divorcing mothers and fathers worry about child support. Will they be able to survive separate and apart?
Of course, parental alienation often rears its ugly head when couples go through high-conflict divorces. The price tag that comes with splitting up may mean your children decide to stay away from you.
Dealing with A High-Conflict Divorce
There is a plethora of reasons you could find yourself in a high-conflict divorce. It could be as simple as your spouse just likes to fight and needs to be right. Infidelity also adds to stressful situations. In the meantime, here are some suggestions if you find yourself in this situation:
- Seek legal counsel as soon as possible. Find someone who makes you feel comfortable.
- Don’t engage in conversations with your spouse that could escalate.
- Think about sitting down with a counselor to give yourself an outlet.
- Keep records of all financial transactions and property ownership.
- Don’t discuss your situation with anyone. Not everyone is your friend.
- Try not to react – especially when your spouse is looking for a reaction.
The bottom line is that an end will ultimately come in sight. Look forward to the fact that soon you will start new.
Contact Us
MHPS offers an experienced and comforting approach to handling divorce cases. Give us a call to schedule an appointment.
