Effective communication with your soon-to-be ex-spouse is crucial for making sound decisions during a divorce. This becomes particularly important when dealing with child custody and co-parenting arrangements, payment of ongoing household and family bills, and the division of assets. One of the truths about divorce is that you will still need to be able to communicate with your ex-spouse after the divorce is over, especially if you have children or have ongoing financial obligations to one another.
Here are 3 strategies for maintaining clear and constructive communication throughout the divorce process:
- Be Cautious with Your Written Communication
Written communication—whether through email, text, or social media—can easily be misconstrued and might even be used as evidence in court. You want to maintain professionalism in every message to your spouse. Avoid emotional outbursts or language that could be interpreted negatively. Instead, focus on facts, keep your tone cordial, and
always think twice before hitting send – every message you send might end up in front of a judge one day! Even phone calls or direct conversations in which you are involved of may be recorded and used in legal proceedings. If you have any doubts about how to communicate on certain issues, consult your lawyer beforehand. - Treat Your Divorce Like a Business Relationship
Divorce is an inherently emotional process, but it is important to separate personal feelings from the task at hand. Treat divorce-related discussions as you would a business meeting. The objective is to make decisions that are fair and practical, not to win arguments. By adopting a business-like mindset, you can remain more objective, which helps prevent conflicts from escalating.
- Consider Using a Communication Coach
If communication becomes particularly challenging, it may be beneficial to enlist the help of a communication coach or divorce mediator. These professionals specialize in guiding couples through difficult conversations, helping you both to better understand each other’s perspectives and to facilitate productive dialogue. This can be especially valuable when emotions are running high and effective communication seems impossible.
While the divorce process is undeniably tough, maintaining clear and respectful communication with your spouse can make the journey a bit smoother. Following these 3 strategies, will enable you to navigate this challenging time with greater confidence and protect the well-being of everyone involved, particularly your children.
The Law Office of Andrew R. Fischer is located at 1516 Highway 138, Unit 1B, Wall, New Jersey 07719 Telephone: 732.865.6653
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