When a marital relationship is no longer sustainable, the spouse may file for divorce in a New Jersey family court. A divorce does not need to involve conflict and a “court fight,” as some marriages end after an amicable settlement. Not all divorce cases come to an agreeable, less acrimonious end. Some proceedings involve significant conflict, which might be stressful for all parties involved.
A high-conflict divorce
When both parties cannot agree, a divorce may involve bitter arguments over the dissolution’s terms. Sometimes, one spouse could be combative, choosing to fight for a seemingly unfair distribution of assets. Such behavior may lead settlement negotiations to go nowhere and force a costly court trial. Even mediation might prove unsuccessful when a spouse becomes highly unreasonable.
Controlling another spouse’s behavior may prove impossible, meaning a reasonable approach might fail when the other spouse’s attitude proves counterproductive. Anger, narcissism, entitlement and attempts to “punish” the other spouse might make the process painful for someone who wants to end the union without much conflict.
Addressing the high-conflict divorce
Spouses may explore options for managing a high-conflict divorce. Those overwhelmed by a spouse’s abusive or controlling behavior may seek assistance from a therapist who could help them deal with the stress. Dealing with and managing the stress might put a spouse in a better position to handle the proceedings.
Providing evidence in court to support child custody and alimony claims may overcome a hostile spouse’s challenges. Effectively proving that a prenuptial agreement is or isn’t valid might overcome arguments, as well.
And perhaps seeking a restraining order against a troublesome spouse may help alleviate some issues and conflicts. Ultimately, options could exist for a spouse struggling with a partner’s behaviors and actions.