Couples in Washington divorce for a variety of reasons, including infidelity, money or because they no longer get along. Regardless of why you’re ending your marriage, the key to moving forward is finalizing this process. Unfortunately, wrapping up this matter can feel impossible in a toxic divorce.
What’s a toxic divorce?
Often called a high-conflict divorce, toxic divorces are when one or both spouses act unfairly throughout this legal matter. These situations are common after a contentious marriage. Due to their confrontational nature, toxic divorces typically take longer than a typical contested divorce.
Examples of toxic divorce behavior
The behavior someone can show during a toxic divorce varies from person to person. However, the most common signs of toxic behavior often include:
- Holding up the divorce process
- Stalking
- Making threats
- Turning children against the other parent
- Mental or physical abuse
- Hiding assets
Set clear terms
Many divorcing couples have children together. Finalizing these legal proceedings typically involves both divorcing adults to set child custody terms. In a toxic divorce, your former spouse may use broad statements about custody-related matters. Having clear and extremely specific custody terms, including dates and times, can prevent an angry spouse from purposefully disrupting your life and schedule.
Have a support network
Thankfully, you won’t have to deal with a difficult ex-spouse twenty-four hours a day. When you’re not conversing with a lawyer or former spouse, set up time to spend around supportive people. These people may include your family, friends or work colleagues.
Completing the divorce process with a problematic person isn’t easy. However, working to get through it moves you a step closer to not dealing with a toxic former spouse.
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