Austin Child Family Lawyer

Can a Divorce be Friendly?

With all the negative press associated with divorce, it’s no surprise that many people approach it with apprehension, and that many others choose to endure in unhappy marriages rather than go through the divorce process. The good news is that divorce can be friendly. Sometimes all it takes is a little more effort to turn a potential legal nightmare into an amicable parting of the ways.

The key is self-examination. Conflict between two people is based on the other person: “It’s your fault! Look what you did! I can’t believe you said that!” Because marital conflict is caused by blaming the other person, the way to defuse it is by recognizing your own responsibility. Once you are able to see your contribution to your marital problems, two things happen. First of all, you start getting to the root of your troubles, and second, you empower yourself to do something about them.

Think of it this way. In an argument, your spouse accuses you of being lazy and not helping with household chores. You get angry and defensive, and lash out at your spouse. In response, he or she throws out another accusation, the confrontation escalates, and so the cycle goes. However, if you approach a conflict with a keen sense of self-responsibility, you will be able to defuse the confrontation before it even begins. As your spouse realizes that you are taking responsibility for your role in the marriage, he or she is much more likely to follow your example, leading to a productive, if not amorous, relationship.

This constructive mindset carries over even into divorce negotiations. When deciding who gets the house or how children will be taken care of, working together with your soon-to-be-ex is much easier, faster, and rewarding than fighting him or her every step of the way.

For more information on divorce, contact an Austin divorce lawyer from Slater & Kennon, LLP by calling 512-472-2431 today.