It's no secret that divorce can be a long and difficult process. But what might be extending your divorce even further? In this blog post, we'll explore some potential causes of a long divorce, including conflict, unclear objectives, and opting for litigation over more collaborative methods.
So if you're wondering why your divorce seems to be dragging on, read on for some possible explanations. And remember, if you find yourself in the midst of a lengthy divorce, you are certainly not alone - many people have been there before and come out the other side. Call our firm at (713) 364-0777 today to learn more about how we can help you with your divorce.
Conflict Between You and Your Spouse
Conflict between a married couple can be emotionally intense and stressful. Often, couples feel stuck in disagreements on the divorce's fundamental aspects. This disagreement makes both sides feel powerless and frustrated, which can sometimes lead to heated arguments.
If left unresolved, the conflict can snowball and keep two spouses from being able to find agreements on crucial issues like child custody or the division of assets. If attempts at resolving the dispute fail, it can become more accessible for one or both spouses to opt for litigation rather than working together collaboratively. Unfortunately, this method is costly and time-consuming, thus extending the entire duration of the proceedings.
Not Knowing What You Want In Your Divorce Agreements
Navigating the divorce process can be a daunting task. It is essential to have a well-thought-out plan to avoid costly conflicts down the road that can delay or prevent the finalization of the process.
Unfortunately, not knowing what you want in your divorce agreement is a common issue couples face when facing such an emotionally charged situation. This can lead to extended disputes and an increased likelihood of litigation, an expensive process where outcomes are never guaranteed.
Taking the time to think about what you want and need during the divorce process is essential for achieving a fair outcome and ensuring your interests are considered. With proper planning, individuals can avoid common mistakes that extend the legal proceedings for months, if not years.
Choosing Litigation Over More Collaborative Methods
Divorcing spouses often assume that the process of resolving their differences will end quickly and cost-effectively if they select a litigated approach. This assumption is usually misguided and can have long-term ramifications in terms of both time and money.
When couples opt for litigation as a means to resolve their disagreements, the legal process can be drawn out for months or even years as court dates are set with input from attorneys, who may act more as advocates than mediators. This lengthy legal process, resulting in potentially higher attorney fees, negatively affects the participants and further sours an already difficult situation.
To avoid such outcomes, it is helpful to consider utilizing alternative dispute resolution methods such as collaborative family law, which uses a team-based approach that works on solutions beneficial to all parties and helps minimize the emotional stress associated with divorce proceedings.
Diligent. Aggressive.
Going through a divorce is difficult enough without additional conflict. If you and your spouse can't seem to agree on anything, it may be time to consider mediation or another method of alternative dispute resolution. Both methods focus on open communication and problem-solving rather than going to court and leaving everything up to a judge.
Consulting with an attorney specializing in collaborative law or mediating divorces can help you decide which method is right for you and help you get through this tough time. At Parchman Law Group P.L.L.C., our team understands that family law matters can be a difficult thing to overcome.
Do you believe your divorce is taking longer than it should? Call our firm at (713) 364-0777 to schedule a complimentary consultation with our team and get a second opinion on your case. We are waiting for your call!