Keys To An Amicable Divorce
An amicable divorce is much better than an acrimonious divorce. Choose an amicable divorce to lower your divorce costs, maintain your relationship with the other parent, and protect your kids from the effects of divorce. Below are things you can do to enjoy an amicable divorce.
Deliberately Opt for an Amicable Divorce
Divorce is a highly emotional affair, and things are unlikely to go your way if you don't deliberately plan for them. Therefore, decide on an amicable divorce right from the start. Talk to your partner about the benefits of amicability and the dangers of an acrimonious divorce. For example, you can decide that you won't blame each other for the marriage's dissolution.
Negotiate in Good Faith
Negotiation is a huge part of a divorce. You will negotiate about almost everything. For example, you will negotiate about alimony, child support, asset division, and child custody and visitation. Negotiation is a common cause of animosity for those who don't go about it right.
For example, negotiating in bad faith is a recipe for disaster. Say you are negotiating on how to get the marital home and let your partner have other assets in exchange. If your partner has already decided not to relinquish the marital home, then they are negotiating in bad faith. Such a negotiation can turn chaotic if no one wants to compromise.
Involve Relevant Professionals
A divorce can also prove acrimonious if you are ignorant about family law issues or the divorce process. Say you believe you deserve a 50-50 share of the marital assets, but your state's divorce laws dictate equitable (not equal) asset distribution. In such a case, you can be at odds with your spouse, who understands the laws.
One way to avoid such issues is to involve relevant professionals in your divorce quest. Consult divorce lawyers, tax professionals, financial planning professionals, and anyone who can help you with the divorce.
Respect Your Partner
Mutual respect goes a long way in preventing acrimony during a divorce. Respect your partners during negotiations and even in the courtroom. Don't talk ill about your partners even in their absence. For example, you should not talk ill about your partner in the presence of your children or mutual friends. The words might get to your partner's ears and derail the divorce process.
Hopefully, the above tips will help you get the divorce you deserve. Consult a family lawyer and discuss your divorce goals so the lawyer can help you get an amicable divorce.
Contact a local family lawyer to learn more.
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