My Best Divorce Advice
I have been practicing law since 1979. Over that time, I have been involved in many divorce cases. Here is what I know: Taking the right steps now can help reduce stress and set the stage for a smoother divorce process. How you handle your divorce will make things either harder or easier for everyone involved, including children.
Here is some practical advice for your divorce to help guide you along the way.
Set Clear Goals for Resolution
One of the most important steps you can take is to set a goal of resolving differences in a peaceful way. If you can sit down with your spouse and work things out, it will make the entire process easier, faster, and less costly. In those discussions, it is important to communicate your needs and wants clearly and respectfully.
Take the High Road
Taking the high road during a divorce isn’t always easy, especially when emotions are running high. However, by maintaining a level of respect and dignity throughout the divorce process, it will lead to better long-term positive outcomes. Think about how your actions and words will affect both you and your spouse and remember that any conflict or bitterness will only drain your energy and resources. Your goal should be to create a healthier, more peaceful life after your divorce.
Focus on the Future, Not the Past
When children are involved, it is important to consider how your actions will affect them. A divorce isn’t the end of a relationship—it is the beginning of a new chapter. Your children, whether young or grown, will be affected by how you handle your separation. If you focus on the future and not on rehashing the past, you can create a more positive environment for everyone. Your family dynamics will change, but your family does not have to be destroyed.
Consider Collaborative Divorce
If you are looking for a respectful and private way to divorce, Collaborative Divorce is the right option for you. Unfortunately, there are family law attorneys who do not discuss Collaborative Divorce with their clients during initial consultations. Collaborative Divorce involves you and your spouse working with a team of divorce professionals to resolve the issues in your case in a private and non-adversarial manner. The Collaborative Process encourages open communication and mutual respect, making it easier to reach agreements that will benefit everyone, especially if there are children.
It allows you to avoid a lengthy and costly court battle while having control over the decisions that will affect your future. Collaborative Divorce can also help preserve a healthier relationship post-divorce, which is particularly important if you have children and shared responsibilities.
Avoid Letting Your Anger or Resentment Dictate Your Actions
It can be easy to slip into anger or resentment when a marriage ends. However, letting these feelings dictate your actions will only harm you in the long run. Even something as small as the tone of voice you use when talking about your ex can have a lasting impact on your children or others around you. By focusing on moving forward and not dwelling on past hurts, you will be better equipped to create a more peaceful future for yourself and your loved ones.
Contact the Law Offices of Robert J. Merlin
Divorce is a time for important decisions, and having the right support can make all the difference. The Law Office of Robert J. Merlin is here to help you approach the process with care and confidence. Call us today at 305-448-1555 for a consultation and take the first step toward a better future. The Law Offices of Robert J. Merlin, P.A. are located at 250 Catalonia Ave, Suite 706, Coral Gables, FL 33134.
Robert J. Merlin is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law by The Florida Bar since 1994 and a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Court Mediator. He is also an Accredited Collaborative Professional through the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals and is widely respected for his commitment to non-adversarial divorce and family law solutions.
Robert has been recognized as one of the Top Lawyers in Florida by Florida Super Lawyers Magazine since 2009, named to the Florida Legal Elite by Florida Trend Magazine since 2008, and listed among the Top Lawyers in South Florida by the South Florida Legal Guide Magazine since 2003.
Bob Merlin is a Florida Bar Board Certified Family Law Specialist, he practices in the areas of divorce, time-sharing of children and parenting plans, child support, alimony, paternity, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, and cohabitation/partnership agreements.
As an experienced Collaborative attorney, Bob continually hones his skills in the Collaborative Process and trains other professionals how to become a Collaborative professional as he is.
“My goal is to help divorcing and other family law clients make well-informed decisions so they experience a more efficient process and feel more in control over their futures.”
