Beginning an initial discussion about divorce with your spouse can be a difficult process. You may be unsure of how they will react or may be worried about the impact of divorce on your financial and family arrangements. Planning ahead for this conversation can often provide you with added confidence when bringing up the topic with your partner. Here are a few helpful tips to help you introduce the subject of divorce in California in a calm and non-confrontational way.
Consider the Short-term and Long-term Effects
Before bringing up the topic of divorce with your spouse, it is a good idea to consider your current financial situation, living arrangements and responsibilities to minor children or other members of your family. Making a clear plan about how to manage these issues can help you feel more self-assured when beginning discussions about divorce with your spouse. Even if your current plans are not immediately acceptable to your partner, you can at least present a general outline of what you would like to see happen.
Choose Your Time and Place Carefully
The right environment can have a significant impact on your spouse’s reaction to the topic of divorce. Finding a quiet moment at home or in a secluded location is likely to help your partner feel more at ease. Divorce is an emotional subject that could lead to tears, anger or other reactions. Making sure that both of you are as calm and comfortable as possible will often make the discussion easier and more productive.
Don’t Act Impulsively
During the heat of an argument, it may be appealing to throw the idea of divorce into the fight to try to gain the upper hand. This can be counterproductive and may result in more problems for your marriage. Discussing the idea of divorce should be reserved for calmer moments when both you and your partner are prepared to look at the situation from a relatively objective standpoint.
Be as Honest as Possible
Stating your reasons for wanting a divorce in plain and direct terms will often result in greater understanding of the situation for both of you. While it is usually not recommended to rehash all the problems and issues between the two of you, a simple statement that includes your main reasons for considering divorce will often provide your partner with the chance to respond with his or her own view on the subject.
Seek Legal Counsel
Touching base with an attorney or divorce mediation team can provide you with added help when planning for your divorce in California. These legal professionals can help you protect your financial assets and deal with any concerns about the procedural aspects of divorce.
A Note About COVID-19
Restrictions put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic can make it difficult for you and your spouse to find the right time and place for divorce discussions. Especially if you have children, you may find it difficult to get the privacy you need for this conversation. In some cases, it may be possible to find a quiet moment after the children are asleep or while they are playing outside to have this discussion. Be sure to let your partner know the topic of the discussion before beginning your talk.
Working with attorneys who offer divorce mediation services can allow for a smoother and less contentious process for your divorce in California. By taking a thoughtful and considerate approach to initial divorce discussions, you can pave the way for a more cordial relationship with your former spouse in the future.