If you’re navigating a dissolution of marriage that is characterized by emotional volatility, intense disagreements, and no ability to compromise, it’s important to call it what it is: a high-conflict dissolution. Dissolution can be challenging and emotionally taxing on all parties involved. By learning high-conflict dissolution of marriage strategies, you can be prepared for anything.
High-Conflict Dissolution of Marriage
Going through a dissolution of marriage can be draining enough, even if you’re on good terms with your spouse. It’s pertinent to be able to identify the signs of a more contentious dissolution of marriage so you can proceed accordingly. High-conflict dissolution typically involves:
- Clear communication breakdowns between parties
- Frequent court appearances
- Misconduct allegations
- Unwillingness to compromise
With agreement from both spouses, the court can appoint a neutral third party to coordinate between them throughout the dissolution proceedings.
It’s important to note that while a coordinator has authority over certain matters, which are specified prior to the case coordination, they do not impact the judge’s exclusive power over making the final decision in a dissolution of marriage case.
In many cases, dissolutions are settled outside of court through arbitration or mediation. Conversely, many high-conflict dissolution cases must be handled through litigation. Regardless of which avenue you use to proceed with your case, it can be highly advantageous to work with a dissolution of marriage attorney.
5 Strategies for Handling High-Conflict Dissolution of Marriage
When it comes to navigating a high-conflict dissolution of marriage, it’s important to remember to take care of yourself and protect yourself through every stage of the process. Here are five key strategies to implement if you’re dealing with a high-conflict dissolution:
- Document everything: No matter the situation, having solid evidence to back up your claims is key to securing a positive outcome in court. It’s wise to keep records of anything regarding your spouse or the dissolution, including communications between you, financial information, in-depth descriptions of any incidents of conflict, and more.
- Focus on the children: If you and your spouse have children, it can be helpful to shift your focus to them as you approach dissolution proceedings. The court is already going to act in the best interest of the children, so it’s in your interest to cooperate and appear calm and collected.
- Prioritize your health: These situations typically lead to intense emotions, so be sure to take steps to keep your mental health in check. This includes practicing self-care, setting boundaries, and seeking external support when needed.
- Try for mediation: While most high-conflict cases are bound to go to the courtroom, it is still possible to settle these cases out of court. A third-party mediator can help you find common ground and offer creative solutions that you may not get in court.
- Work with a trusted attorney: You’re not legally required to work with a dissolution of marriage attorney in Missouri, but it’s highly recommended, especially for high-conflict dissolution. In these situations, the stakes are usually higher, and the process is typically drawn out. A Columbia dissolution of marriage attorney can advocate for you, help defuse conflicts, and protect your rights.
More About High-Conflict Dissolution of Marriage
It can be exceptionally difficult to navigate a high-conflict dissolution of marriage on your own, which is why it’s wise to consider meeting with a divorce/dissolution of marriage attorney to help you weather the highs and lows of your case.
In a high-conflict dissolution, every step of the process will likely take longer than usual, and it’s more likely for things to be filled out incorrectly due to stress. Be sure to mentally prepare for this and manage your expectations throughout the process.
FAQs
Q: What Are the Three C’s of Dissolution of Marriage?
A: The three C’s of dissolution of marriage are communication, compromise, and cooperation. These are three principles that can improve the dissolution of marriage proceedings and ensure the process is as stress-free as possible. The point of a dissolution is to work in the interest of all parties involved. This is especially important if children are involved.
Q: What Is Considered a High-Conflict Dissolution of Marriage
A: High-conflict dissolution typically arises between spouses who feel a lot of animosity and hostility toward each other. In these emotionally charged situations, one or both parties may try to intentionally inflict pain upon the other or make the dissolution of marriage process more difficult. In these situations, the court may take additional steps to address the issue, including involving a neutral third party in the case.
Q: What Are My Rights in a Dissolution of Marriage
A: As a spouse going through a dissolution of marriage in Missouri, you have the right to child custody and support, fair division of property, and potentially spousal support, among other things. Missouri is a no-fault dissolution state, which means you are not required to prove fault to dissolve your marriage.
Missouri follows an equitable distribution model for dividing shared property to ensure property is distributed fairly. It’s important to note that this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s split completely evenly.
Q: How Long Do High-Conflict Dissolution of Marriage Cases Typically Last
A: In general, high-conflict dissolution typically lasts longer than a standard dissolution because there is usually some level of contention and discord between the two spouses. The amount of time it takes to settle a high-conflict dissolution of marriage can vary depending on a variety of factors. A dissolution of marriage lawyer can help guide you through challenges in your dissolution to make the process move as quickly as possible.
Discuss Your Situation With a Divorce/Dissolution of Marriage Lawyer and Start Building Your Case
Going through a dissolution of marriage can be stressful, no matter what. High-conflict dissolution of marriage brings with it additional emotional battles and, ultimately, a longer dissolution process. At Stange Law Firm, we develop legal strategies specific to every client’s needs.
No matter your situation, you can count on our team to help you fight for fair dissolution terms that allow you to move forward with your life. If you’re ready to discuss your case in more detail, contact our team to schedule an appointment with a skilled divorce/dissolution of marriage lawyer today.
