Ending a marriage is not easy, whether a divorce stems from the marriage running its course or more specific issues like infidelity. No matter what the circumstances leading up to the divorce are, however, many people prefer an amicable divorce to a contentious one. This is especially true when there are children involved.
If you are among those hoping to avoid the most bitter and divisive elements of a divorce, there are some steps you can take to do this.
- Commit to mediation. Mediation is an alternative to litigation, and it allows divorcing parties to work through issues themselves outside of court. With the help of attorneys and a mediator, spouses can discuss property division, child custody and financial support to find agreeable solutions. Because parties work together to secure these resolutions, it can be a peaceful process resulting in agreements with which both parties can be satisfied.
- Familiarize yourself with the process and family laws. Most people don’t know what to expect during a divorce, particularly when they have never been through one before. They often imagine the worst or make assumptions based on what they see in movies or on TV. This can lead to unreasonable expectations and upsetting surprises, which can complicate the divorce. To avoid this, talk to an attorney about your specific situation and how California laws apply.
- Don’t make avoidable missteps. People make mistakes out of fear, anger or frustration when they are divorcing. They might make false allegations about a spouse, attempt to conceal assets or reveal information on social media that contradicts their statements in court. These are all costly missteps that can derail a divorce and cause additional legal obstacles. To avoid these, don’t act out of spite or revenge during legal proceedings. Try to focus on the bigger picture and discuss any fears, concerns or questions with your attorney.
Divorcing amicably can be a challenge, but people often find that the effort is worth it when they arrive at fair solutions more quickly and peacefully. It can also be especially helpful for parents who will co-parent or share custody of their children for years to come.
