You can group most divorces into two main categories. There are uncontested divorces that are quick and involve the judge approving a couple’s proposed property division settlement or custody arrangements. Then, there are contested divorces that involve litigation. In a contested divorce, a Florida family law judge chooses how to divide parenting time and your property.
Although litigation may seem inevitable when you first decide to pursue a divorce, especially if emotions are quite high, you need to understand what litigation can cost your family before making that decision. Many spouses are able to find a way to resolve disputes for an uncontested filing.
What are the negative consequences of litigating your divorce?
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Higher overall costs
Every divorce comes with a unique price tag, but those who have to litigate multiple issues can typically expect to pay far more for the process. In some cases, an uncontested divorce may cost a fraction of what a litigated divorce would cost. Even if you need to pay for a mediator, trying to resolve your disagreements amicably will be a more affordable solution for your family.
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Further damage to your relationship
Whether your parents live on the same block as your spouse’s or you share children with one another, the chances are good that you will occasionally need to interact with your spouse in the future. The more aggressive and adversarial your divorce becomes, the harder it will be for the two of you to maintain a civil relationship in the future.
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Emotional trauma for your children
The more angry and aggressive parents become during divorce proceedings, the more likely their negative emotions are to spill over and affect their children. Couples that actively avoid conflict can’t save their children from all the harm possible and divorce, but they can drastically reduce the stress and trauma the children experience during the divorce.
A cooperative approach would shield your children from conflict between the two of you, angry testimony in court and the obligation to make their preferences about custody matters known.
As you start to recognize the lasting impact of a litigated, contentious divorce, you may see the value in intentionally minimizing conflict and cooperating with your ex. Pursuing an amicable or peaceful divorce can benefit everyone in the family.
