What You Gain From Being Nice in Your Divorce
How you choose to treat your spouse during your divorce can shape the entire process and affect your future relationship. While emotions run high, choosing to be respectful and kind will make a significant difference in the divorce process. Historically, divorce was about fighting for everything, with legal battles focused on conflict leading to long and expensive battles. However, when you choose to take a different approach, you can set yourself up for a smoother transition and you can save money in the process.
Less Stress, Less Expense
When you and your spouse communicate with respect, you can avoid unnecessary court battles. You can also instruct your attorney to minimize the conflict with your spouse’s attorney. Every time you step into a courtroom, you leave your fate in the hands of a judge. You also risk appeals and additional legal fees. By keeping the peace, you reduce the likelihood of costly litigation, making the divorce process quicker and less expensive.
A Better Outcome for Everyone
Divorce is typically a negotiation. Neither you nor your spouse will get everything you want, but you can both walk away with a fair outcome. In choosing to be nice during the process, you increase the chance of reaching a settlement that works for both of you. This is especially important if you have children. Reducing hostility benefits them and allows you to co-parent after the divorce more effectively. Even simple changes in communication, like how you refer to the other parent, will shape your child’s experience during this transition.
Long-Term Benefits
Once the divorce is finalized, life continues. If you’ve treated your ex with respect, you are more likely to have a healthier post-divorce relationship. This will be beneficial for co-parenting, social situations, and even your own well-being. Holding onto anger and resentment can take a toll on your health, while letting go of hostility can reduce stress and lead to a more peaceful future.
Contact the Law Offices of Robert J. Merlin
At the Law Offices of Robert J. Merlin, we believe that a more respectful divorce leads to better results for everyone involved. Contact us at (305) 448-1555 to schedule a consultation and to discuss how we can support you through this transition.
The Law Offices of Robert J. Merlin, P.A. are located at 250 Catalonia Ave., Suite 706, Coral Gables, FL 33134.
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.”
