How to Deal With a Difficult Spouse During Divorce

Anyone who has been through a divorce knows that it is an emotionally trying process. Even the most amicable of splits can involve disagreements, arguments, and difficult compromises. Having to deal with a difficult spouse just makes the already-traumatic process that much harder.

Even if it seems impossible, you will get through it. Here are a few things you can do that will help ease the pain when your soon-to-be-ex spouse is making the divorce process even more difficult that it needs to be.

Keep Records of Everything

Any divorce can quickly devolve into a “he said, she said” situation. Finger-pointing and placing blame are common responses when emotions are running high. It’s even worse when one spouse is determined to be overly stubborn or, worse yet, lie to get what he or she wants.

In these situations, it is important to have evidence to back up your side of the story. As soon as it becomes clear that the marriage is going to end, it is time to start documenting everything. This includes not only standard documentation like bank records and other official financial papers, but also records of your day-to-day interactions. Keep track of your discussions on important matters, and write down any agreements that you make.

Being organized will come in handy down the road if your spouse later tries to paint an alternative version of events. Having evidence that supports your position will help keep the focus on the actual negotiations and avoid additional bickering. Keeping a record to refresh your recollection will also lend you more credibility during negotiations.

Keep It Professional

There is no way around it—divorce is emotional and can bring out the worst in people. It is easy to get drawn into the drama and the fighting, wanting to defend your position. When your spouse is being difficult, it only compounds the hurt and anger that you are likely already feeling.

The important thing to remember is that divorce is a business matter. Reaching a divorce settlement is about planning for the future, not rehashing the past. Regardless of how your spouse may be acting, it is crucial that you focus on protecting your rights and interests going forward. Reaching an equitable settlement is the goal. It is strictly a business matter; anger and emotions have no place in the process.

Hire An Experienced Divorce Attorney

Leaving emotions out of the divorce process can be easier said than done. That is just one of the reasons you should hire an attorney to do your negotiating for you. Choosing an experienced attorney means you have someone in your corner who can focus on the logistical issues and guide you through the process without getting sidetracked by the emotional implications of the divorce.

A knowledgeable divorce attorney will also know exactly what you are entitled to in your divorce, making sure that you are not giving up anything that is rightfully yours. The experienced divorce lawyers at Select Law Partners, PLLC are here to guide you through every step of your divorce, ensuring that your rights are protected.

Going through a divorce with a difficult spouse can be a particularly adversarial process. You should not attempt it on your own. Our team will handle the divorce proceedings and focus on getting you the best possible settlement, so you can focus on your future. Contact us today to discuss your situation and take the first step toward protecting your interests.

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Matt Kurylo

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