Washington High Conflict Divorce Lawyer
Divorce is a very challenging experience, particularly when there is significant conflict between the couple ending their marriage. The process can take an immense emotional toll on people, particularly when one or more parties are focused on ‘winning’ their case. When there is a great deal of conflict between a divorcing couple, it can increase the costs of the case, cause unnecessary delays, and make the entire ordeal even more stressful. Below, our Washington high conflict divorce lawyer explains specific challenges associated with these cases, and how to navigate the process.
What Causes High Conflict in Divorce Cases?
There are a number of factors that can result in a high conflict divorce. Some of the most common of these are as follows:
- Infidelity: Infidelity can put a great strain on a marriage and lead to feelings of anger, betrayal, and mistrust. Learning a spouse has been unfaithful can increase the level of conflict and trigger an intense emotional response that makes it even harder for spouses to amicably resolve the terms of their divorce.
- Personality disorders: Personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder or narcissistic personality disorder can cause a person to engage in behaviors that lead to high-conflict divorces. These can include gaslighting, manipulation, and an inability to empathize with the other spouse.
- Mental health issues: Mental health issues such as anxiety or depression can worsen conflict by impacting decision-making and communication.
- Financial issues: Financial issues can also significantly contribute to marital discord and during divorce proceedings, this can escalate conflict. Disputes over alimony, property division, and child support can result in contentious legal battles.
- Child custody disputes: Of all the different terms of a divorce, child custody issues are some of the most heated. Parents may not be able to agree on parental responsibilities, visitation schedules, or the best interests of the child.
Navigating a High Conflict Divorce
It is critical to prioritize your mental health and well-being when getting divorced. Seeking therapy, engaging in self-care practices, and engaging in activities that promote physical and mental health are all of the utmost importance when going through a high-conflict divorce.
It is also important to set realistic goals for the process. This can help you understand what to relinquish during the process, and what to stand firm on. This can help prevent unnecessary fights that will only lead to increased conflict.
To minimize conflict, it is also essential that you communicate effectively with your spouse. Try to speak respectfully and calmly with your spouse, establish clear boundaries, and avoid emotional confrontations. Establishing ground rules for communication and using tools such as texting or email can help ensure intersections are kept productive and civil.
Our High Conflict Divorce Lawyer in Washington Can Help with the Process
Divorce is already an emotional process and high levels of conflict only worsen it for all parties involved. At Bunde & Roberts, P.C., our Washington high conflict divorce lawyer can advise on the strategies to reduce conflict so the process is not more difficult than it needs to be. Call us now at 412-391-4330 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.