THE TOP 5 “COSTS” OF DIVORCE THAT HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH MONEY (And How To Handle Them In Order To Foster A More Productive, Cooperative And Collaborative Divorce)

• ‍EMOTIONAL TURBULENCE AND GRIEF

One of the most immediate non-monetary costs of divorce is the potential emotional toll it has been known to take on the parties involved (including non-party members of the family). Notably, not all parties to a divorce proceeding experience emotional turbulence and/or grief. There are many individuals who do not experience emotional turbulence and/or grief. The experience of divorce is very specific and unique for everyone and not all persons going through a divorce experience the same emotions. For many couples, divorce can (and has) been collaborative, positive and seamless.

 However, some individuals may go through some level of emotional experiences at some point during their divorce case which is specific to the unique facts of their case. The end of a marriage may trigger a wide range of emotions—grief, anger, confusion, and even relief—each requiring time to process and heal. This potential emotional turbulence may lead to unpleasant feelings making it important to ensure that you seek supportive networks, whether through friends, family, or professional counseling (if necessary). These healthy practices may potentially assist you in having a more collaborative divorce process.

• ‍IMPACT ON MENTAL HEALTH

Divorce can sometimes have an impact on mental health. This is not true for all parties to a divorce proceeding. However, it is common that sometimes the stress of navigating a major life change like divorce, can potentially lead to some level of anxiety and potentially other mental health challenges. Taking care of your mental well being during this transition is as crucial as any legal or financial preparation. Practices like mindfulness, counseling, and engaging in supportive communities can help manage these challenges, thereby; encouraging a more communicative divorce process that helps the parties to come to agreements on issues that they may not have otherwise agreed-upon and ultimately reducing or potentially eliminating the need for multiple costly motion practice and court hearings.

• ‍CHANGES IN PERSONAL PASSIONS AND LIFE-GOALS

A marriage is often a core part of a person’s identity, and its dissolution can leave individuals questioning what is “next” for them in this “new chapter” of their lives. Rediscovering a sense of self, passions, and personal goals is a journey that is different for everyone experiencing a divorce. Taking the time to think about what makes you happy, what are the things that you love doing (like working-out, cooking, and other activities) can help you discover your next-chapter and fosters a healthy mindset. Maintaining the focus of these healthy things (as well as the best interest of your child/children), can potentially foster and support a more collaborative and cooperative divorce process.

• ‍EFFECTS ON CHILDREN AND FAMILY DYNAMICS

For couples with children, divorce brings about changes that extend beyond the adults involved. Children may experience feelings of confusion, requiring clarification from their parents and family. It’s important to focus on maintaining open lines of communication and seeking professional guidance to help all family members navigate this period with sensitivity and care, because the court/judge will consider “the best interest of the child” in its rulings pertaining to your divorce if there are minor children involved.

• ‍SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Despite evolving social attitudes, divorce can still carry a sense of stigma. Building a supportive social network and engaging in communities that offer understanding and shared experiences can help mitigate this sense of social isolation and promote a healthier more collaborative divorce, which often reduces costs associated with lengthy (highly contested) court battles involving countless court hearings and motion practice.

‍

FINALTHOUGHTS

While divorce can often be seen as a pathway to a better, more authentic life, it comes with significant non-monetary costs. The emotional, mental, and social challenges require careful attention and a supportive approach in order to reduce the risk that these challenges may have on increasing the actual financial costs of your divorce.

 CONTACT THE EXPERIENCED MARITAL & FAMILY LAW ATTORNEYS AT THE JOSEPH FIRM, P.A.

If you’re considering filing for divorce in the State of Florida, you can contact The Joseph Firm, P.A. Attorney, Marck K. Joseph, Esq., BCS is a Board Certified Marital and Family Law expert and the owner of The Joseph Firm, P.A. With almost fifteen (15) years of experience in Martial & Family Law, he is uniquely qualified in helping in most types of family cases, including divorce matters.

If you are involved in a family law matter in Florida, consulting with an experienced family law attorney can help you navigate the legal process while advocating for the best interests of your child. Our law firm fully understands the challenges of navigating marital and family law issues and we’re always ready to provide the highest-quality legal representation. Whether your case settles outside the courtroom or goes to trial (or final hearing), our attorneys go the extra mile for every client.

Our firm offers free case evaluations to determine whether the firm can assist you with your case, and if we can, a case consultation meeting will be scheduled. The experienced divorce lawyers at Joseph Firm, P.A. are ready to hear your story. We provide smart, aggressive family law representation to clients. To learn more, call (305) 501-0992