How Can I Reduce Stress in My Divorce?

Going through the divorce process can be straining, both emotionally and financially. However, in some instances, there may be methods by which you can reduce the stress associated with your divorce as well as the amount of time it takes to finalize that divorce. Below are a few suggestions that, depending on circumstances, certain couples may want to consider in order to make the divorce process easier on themselves and their loved ones.

 

First, consider resolving your divorce out-of-court. Many couples feel that fighting one another before a judge is a necessary evil of divorce, but this is not true. There are several ways to settle a divorce that does not require going to court or arguing in front of a judge. Alternative methods such as mediation and (both of which constitute forms of “Alternative Dispute Resolution”) take place out-of-court and can come with significant and important benefits. For example, they tend to lead to a resolution more quickly (and are therefore less expensive) than traditional litigation. Because there is less time engaged in a litigious divorce process, these alternatives can be less emotionally taxing on the divorcing couple. 

 

Second, take some time to become informed about your financial situation before filing for divorce. Many of the discussions that take place during the divorce process involve how to split assets and divide property. You will want to be informed about your financial position so that you can competently participate in these conversations. Consider consulting a financial advisor before your divorce so that you can learn where you stand.

 

Lastly, consider filing for a no-fault divorce. Texas allows for two kinds of divorce – one based on fault, and one not based on fault. A fault-based divorce requires the person seeking a divorce to prove that their spouse has engaged in “bad behavior,” such as adultery. Proving that your spouse has engaged in such behavior may be an expensive and painful process. Additionally, your spouse may attempt to fight a fault-based divorce by proving that the harmful behavior never occurred. This can become a long, drawn-out process which incurs significant costs and prolongs the divorce process. Of course, in some instances, it is imperative to a just resolution that the court be aware of certain behaviors that occurred during the marriage. In other instances, however, it may be optimal to file for a no-fault divorce and reach resolution more quickly. A no-fault divorce does not require you to prove that your spouse has done something harmful; you may file for a no-fault divorce simply because you and your spouse don’t get along (Texas refers to these marriages as unsupportable.

 

If you or your spouse are considering a divorce, please contact us  for more information.