A divorce is a significant event in a person’s life, and it is normal to be hesitant when your partner begins to ask about one. During times like these, it is okay to feel sad, stressed, and overwhelmed about the whole situation. However, no matter what you may be feeling, it is essential to stay calm and composed when talking through your options with your spouse. Although it’s a very tough situation, you do not want to push your partner even further away.
5 Things You Should Do
- Stay Calm: It is important to stay calm when divorce is brought up. It is likely your partner has been thinking about splitting up for a while, and nothing you do in the moment will change that. You want to respect their boundaries and give each other space to breathe.
- Talk with Your Spouse, but Do Not Beg or Press: It is okay to want to talk things over—but not to be desperate. Because your spouse has probably been considering this decision for a while, they likely already feel trapped and against a wall. Pressing them can overwhelm them and push your spouse even further away. It’s advantageous to take things slow and make sure you are considering your partner’s feelings during the discussion.
- Do Not Act Up: Do not act out physically, abuse substances, make sexual advances with others, or participate in any other inappropriate behavior. All of these things could potentially be used as grounds for divorce in court and will further damage your relationship. If you believe there is any chance you could reconcile your marriage, it is vital to be on your best behavior. An important caveat, in Kansas “no fault” divorce is acceptable. That means that a person does not need to cite a fault basis (like infidelity) for the Court to grant them a divorce. In Kansas, simply stating that you are incompatible will be enough for the Court to approve a divorce.
- Focus on Yourself: This situation can provide an opportunity to find joy in other things without your partner. Taking up a new hobby or doing more of the things you love most can ease your mind and giving space will take some pressure off your relationship.
- Once Emotions Have Settled Down, Find Help: Now that you have taken the time to de-escalate the situation, you need to begin contemplating your next move. This could be marriage counseling, starting the divorce process, or working out the problem however the two of you see fit.
What Is the Next Move?
If the time has passed and your partner still wants a divorce, it’s time to take the next steps to ensure you are fairly represented and prepared for the process. It can be beneficial to have an experienced attorney available to walk you through the process and protect your rights during the divorce process.
Divorces are often complicated, and many factors and decisions go into one. Whether it’s mediation, filing paperwork, representation in court, or properly dividing property and assets, diligent lawyers provide significant assistance in guaranteeing a smoother and fair process.
Speak With a Knowledgeable Attorney Today
If you or a loved one are currently going through a divorce or there is the potential of divorce, it can be best to consider your options with a seasoned family law attorney. At Addair Law, our team of skilled attorneys are devoted to our clients and protecting their rights. If you are going through a divorce or other family matters, talk with one of our dedicated legal professionals today to learn more about how we can help.