Divorce conflict can lengthen your divorce process, increase your divorce expenses, and create longlasting animosity between you and your ex-spouse. However, you can often avoid conflict if you proactively set out to avoid it. Below are some practical measures to minimize divorce conflict.
Understand the Uniqueness of Divorces
Divorces take different routes, and each one is unique. Don't expect your divorce to resemble a friend's or colleagues. Maybe the divorced couples you know focused more on winning than conflict avoidance, but you should aim for an amicable divorce. Even if you have firsthand divorce experience, don't expect your subsequent experience to be the same.
Try Alternatives to Litigation
Litigation is more likely to fan conflict than alternative forms of divorce. Instead, try alternative forms of divorce, such as:
Even if litigation is inevitable, you should settle as many issues as possible outside the courtroom.
Focus on Fairness
Unfairness is a common cause of conflict in divorce. For example, your spouse might be bitter and start retaliatory tactics if they feel that you will leave the marriage in a better financial position than them. The divorce settlement should be fair in terms of:
Note that fairness doesn't always mean equality. For example, an ill spouse with limited income opportunities deserves a more generous settlement than a healthier spouse.
The best way to practice fairness is to:
Don't forget that the court will also practice equitable distribution if your marriage ends up in court.
Seek Relevant Professional Help
A divorce can be complicated if you don't know what to do. The complications can frustrate you, and you might end up taking out your frustrations on your partner.
To prevent this downslide, consult with relevant professionals to help you simplify the process. For example, you may need:
Your attorney will advise you on the professionals you need depending on your circumstances. The attorney may also refer you to dependable professionals with whom they have worked before.
Understand Divorce Law
Divorce law varies by state. Educate yourself on Tennessee divorce law so that you can:
For example, Tennessee uses the Income Shares Model to determine child support. The formula considers your respective gross incomes plus the number of children you have. If child support is an aspect of your divorce, you'll need to understand how the formula works so that you can make informed decisions during negotiations.
Practice Self-care
Take care of yourself during the divorce process. Mind your physical and mental health. Specifically, you should:
Self-care will lift your mood, keep your mind sharp, and help you make rational decisions.
An experienced divorce lawyer can help you minimize divorce conflict. The Law Office of Joe R. "Jay" Johnson, II, has been practicing family law for decades. Contact us for a consultation to determine the best approach for your divorce.
Phone: 615-384-0284
Fax: 615-384-3224
Email: joe@joejohnsonlaw.com
Address: 115 Fifth Ave. West Springfield, TN 37172
Payment plans available
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