Navigating Divorce: Divorce Misconduct
The Damaging Effects of Divorce Misconduct
While some couples split amicably and try to compromise, many divorces are contentious. Perhaps you or your spouse are angry about the divorce or are caught off guard. The divorce proceeding can bring old resentments to the surface. You may even feel justified in this poor treatment if infidelity or abuse was a factor in the demise of your marriage. As a result, they may seek revenge and make the divorce process as nasty and complicated as possible.
It is natural to feel angry during your divorce, but keep in mind that unleashing your anger can be detrimental to your case and make it more costly. Here are a few of the possible consequences of bad behavior and why you should avoid them.
Longer and More Expensive Case
Divorce is disruptive and expensive enough. The last thing that you should want to do is prolong the trauma and increase the expense. Those are the two consequences of engaging in bad behavior. Although it may feel good in the moment, that feeling will dissipate very quickly and it will cause an equal reaction from your soon-to-be ex-spouse. That will just make your case go longer and be that much more expensive. You need your emotional energy and bank account to start rebuilding your life. Don’t waste either by engaging in a contentious divorce case.
Denial of Custody Requests
The court prefers to award joint custody, as it is believed to be in the best interest of the children. However, the court can and will award sole custody and limit visitation under certain circumstances. In addition to instances of abuse and neglect, the court may deny you custody if you try to alienate your child against the other parent. Placing the child at the center of disputes is also frowned upon, as it places undue stress on the child while also affecting their relationship with your ex-spouse. Additionally, anything that calls into question your parenting ability can also be used against you.
Reduced Assets and Spousal Support
Asset division, spousal support, and alimony are particularly divisive when it comes to divorce. While the court believes in making these decisions fairly, your conduct can directly impact them. For example, if you make claims that affect your spouse’s professional reputation or earning capability, the amount of spousal support or alimony that you receive can be reduced. Your soon-to-be ex-spouse can also use your behavior to argue that they deserve a greater share of the assets, and depending on the circumstances they might be successful.
Increased Stress and Anxiety
In addition to the impact on your court case, bad behavior towards your spouse will also impact you personally. A divorce is one of the most emotional events a person can go through. Ending a marriage—possibly a relationship that lasted decades—is no minor thing. Going from married life to single life can be scary. Settling all the major issues takes an emotional toll on a person. Excessive negativity tends to make you more cynical, hostile, causing you to distort the truth and break the cycle into something more positive. In short, it tends to prevent your ability to move on with your life. Keep negative statements to yourself, both in real life and online. In recent years, many courts have accepted statements made on social media as evidence in court cases, including divorces. Be respectful and civil to ensure your point of view has merit.
If you’re thinking about divorce or have already been served with the divorce papers, our experienced and trustworthy divorce lawyers at Fiffik Law Group are here to help. Our lawyers have provided guidance to thousands of clients and we’re ready to bring that experience to bear in your case. Contact us today.
