Divorce is rarely straightforward. Not only is it a huge transition emotionally, divorce often brings a lot of uncertainty when it comes to finances and the arrangements for the children. Not to mention what life will look like when it comes to friendships and the wider family once your separation is final.
It’s a daunting prospect, and one with the potential to cause pain, upset and bad feelings. However, whilst it might not be the happiest time of your life, there are things you can do to make your experience of divorce a relatively healthy one.
Keep communication open
Communication is key. Being open, honest and willing to listen will make the entire process smoother, clearer and more productive. Long periods of silent stalemate or too much back and forth can lead to miscommunication, and result in you losing sight of what it is you’re trying to achieve. If you’re willing to keep the channels of communication open, you may find yourself moving forward more efficiently, and with less tension.
That being said, in some circumstances keeping communication open with an ex is just not possible. It might be that no matter how reasonable you are or try to be, they’re just not interested in behaving in the same way. Effective communication is also very difficult if you’re leaving an abusive or controlling relationship.
That’s why seeking legal advice at the earliest opportunity is absolutely vital, no matter the circumstances. Effective communication is always easier when you have clarity about where you stand and have a clear picture of what your future looks like.
Don’t exclude the children
If you have children, your natural default might be to keep them out of the picture and away from the realities of divorce. But depending on how old they are and their level of understanding, this could backfire in the long run. The truth is that they’re going through this too. Their lives are going to change and things are going to look different. For children, a lack of control and a change from the status quo can be incredibly unsettling.
Giving your children some of the details can really help to ease that anxiety. Reassure them that it’s not their fault, and explain some of the things that might change in the future.
This also means remaining as impartial as possible. For example, don’t badmouth your ex in front of the children. Remember that it’s important for them to have both parents in their lives where possible, and badmouthing them can lead to all sorts of confusion and complications.
Find the right solicitor
As we’ve already said above, seeking legal advice as early as you can is the best way to ensure that your divorce is as manageable and stress-free as possible. Having that expert support from the get-go is a great way to lift some of the weight off your shoulders, and keep communication and progress on track.
At Harrogate Family Law, that’s exactly what we do. With our expert team, you have the support you need at every step of your legal journey. To find out more about working with us, give us a call today.
