A contested divorce can quickly go from tense to confrontational as your spouse grows frustrated with the legal process. Since your spouse cannot lash out at his or her attorney, the judge, or anyone else involved with the case it is not unusual for your ex to focus all of his or her anger on you. Coping with a high conflict divorce is not easy, but it is possible with patience and the help of a skilled divorce attorney. Working to avoid conflict during the divorce process helps reduce your stress level and can prevent further delays during your divorce.

Do Not Share Your Thoughts or Feelings

It is common for a person who is angry or frustrated to attempt to bully his or her spouse during the divorce process. Even though your ex knows this will not do anything to help his or her case or speed things up, often a person will engage in this behavior simply to upset his or her spouse or children. Not arguing back or getting visibly upset deprives your spouse of the reaction he or she wants. While it is hard to let hurtful or hateful words go unchallenged, keeping your feelings and thoughts to yourself is better in the long run.

Limit Contact

A certain amount of contact is necessary if you and your spouse have children or own property together. However, it is a good idea to limit contact between you and your spouse if he or she regularly initiates conflict. Speak to your ex on an as-needed basis and end the conversation when he or she starts to go off topic or starts arguing. If necessary, have your attorney handle communication on your behalf and refer your spouse’s calls or emails directly to the attorney’s office.

Focus on the Needs of Your Children

If you and your spouse have minor children, do what you can to shield them from conflict.  During a high-conflict divorce, child are often caught in the middle of battles even when the arguments are largely one-sided. Communicating with your spouse or attorney when the children are not in the room is one way to protect them from the worst of the disputes. Subjecting your children to your disagreements with their other parent can negatively affect their ability to talk to peers, form healthy friendships, and cope with conflicts as they get older.

Talk to Your Attorney

There is no reason for you or someone close to you to go through a high-conflict divorce without the assistance needed. An attorney who has experience dealing with high-conflict, contested divorces can help you determine the best way to cope with your spouse for the duration of the legal proceedings. The team at Vayman & Teitelbaum is ready to provide you with the legal advice and representation you need during this difficult time. With offices located throughout the Atlanta, Georgia metro area, we are able to discuss your case and give you advice based on your individual circumstances. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation so that we can begin working on your behalf.