Many couples treat divorce as a battle, trying to win by all possible means. If you and your spouse’s parting is particularly painful, you may feel tempted to take this approach. Before forging ahead with fury, you will want to consider whether this is an effective way to achieve the settlement you want. By cooperating during divorce proceedings, you can do your best to prevent negative outcomes – for yourself and for your family.
Cooperation quickens proceedings
No one wants to drag out divorce proceedings for months or years. Taking an adversarial approach to your divorce, though, will almost guarantee this happens. Negotiating the terms of your split with your spouse will quicken the process. Working together allows you to avoid countless court hearings, which eat up time. Furthermore, cooperating will save you the costs of litigation, which becomes expensive fast.
Cooperation keeps you in the driver’s seat
As you and your spouse divide your property and figure out custody, child support and spousal support, you will want to remain in the driver’s seat. By waging war against each other, you two could end up settling these matters in court. In this case, your final judgment may contain provisions unfavorable to both of you. Cooperating with your spouse allows you two to tailor its terms to your needs and circumstances.
Cooperation is easier on your children
Children whose parents go through messy divorces often experience psychological harm as a result. Because the potential for damage is so high, you and your spouse will want to do your best to present a united front for your children. By putting their best interests ahead of your feelings, you can minimize the effects your divorce may have on them. Focusing on your parental responsibilities can also help you and your spouse establish a strong co-parenting relationship, which is difficult to do if you two are at odds.
Whether you pursue a collaborative divorce or go through mediation, you have ways to keep your divorce amicable. No matter which form of resolution you choose, you can protect your family, finances and well-being by cooperating during the process.
