High-conflict divorce cases can be emotionally draining and legally complex. At Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein, we understand the challenges our clients face during this difficult time. In this blog, we will provide you with practical strategies and tips to navigate high-conflict divorce cases successfully.
Characteristics of High-Conflict Divorces
Constant Disagreements: High-conflict divorces are marked by ongoing arguments, making it challenging for the parties to agree on important issues, such as child custody, division of assets or support.
Emotional Intensity: Emotions run high in high-conflict divorce cases, often leading to aggressive behavior, hostility, anger and revenge-seeking actions between the parties.
Involvement of Children: Disputes relating to child custody, visitation and parenting decisions can significantly impact children, which inherently makes high-conflict divorce cases more emotionally charged.
Lengthy Legal Battles: High-conflict divorces often involve prolonged legal battles, resulting in increased costs, stress and time spent in court.
Factors that Contribute to High-Conflict Divorces
Communication Breakdown: Poor communication or an inability to communicate effectively often contributes to escalated conflict throughout divorce proceedings.
Personality Traits: Parties who engage in manipulative tactics or controlling behaviors may exacerbate the disputes that occur during the divorce process.
Financial Disputes: Complex financial situations can heighten conflict and make the resolution of equitable distribution, spousal support, child support and other financial issues contentious.
Parenting Disagreements: Conflicting parenting styles and disagreements about decisions relating to children can amplify tensions during the divorce process, especially when addressing issues of custody.
What You Should Know
Emotional Toll: High-conflict divorces can be emotionally draining and stressful. Seeking emotional support from friends, family or a therapist is an important coping tool during this challenging time.
Legal Representation: Consulting and retaining a skilled attorney who has experience with high-conflict divorce cases is a crucial step in navigating the legal complexities involved in such cases.
Focus on Children: Prioritizing the well-being of children throughout the divorce process is vital. Of the utmost importance is minimizing their exposure to conflict, fostering a healthy co-parenting relationship and taking steps to ensure their emotional stability.
Documentation and Evidence: Maintaining records of communications is critical as they may ultimately serve as valuable evidence down the line.
Mediation and Counseling: In some cases, mediation or counseling could be a useful tool to help facilitate negotiations and improve communication between the parties, potentially leading to a more amicable resolution.
Protecting Yourself
Set Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries and maintaining a civil communication line, particularly in co-parenting situations, can help reduce conflict throughout the divorce process.
Practice Self-Care: Prioritizing your well-being and focusing on self-care is crucial. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as exercising and meditation is a great way to accomplish this.
Seek Professional Help: Mental health professionals and divorce coaches can offer invaluable guidance on managing emotions and navigating the complexities of high-conflict divorce cases.
Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein Understands Divorce
High-conflict divorces can be emotionally exhausting and legally complex, but with the right strategies and adequate support, individuals can navigate these challenges effectively. Seeking legal counsel, prioritizing the well-being of children and focusing on personal well-being are essential tools in persevering through the difficulties of high-conflict divorce cases.
At Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein, we specialize in navigating complex divorce cases, ensuring that our clients' rights and interests are protected. If you are facing a high-conflict divorce, we are here to help. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let us guide you through this challenging process.
Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein is available by phone at (212) 466-6015. You can also feel free to send us a message online.