Very few spouses go through a divorce without a single stressful moment. Even if spouses agree that parting ways is the best option and end their marriage in the most amicable way possible, there are certain stressful situations that are virtually unavoidable. Beginning a new chapter of your life always involves a certain degree of anxiety, even if you are genuinely glad that your marriage has come to an end. Some spouses experience more emotional issues when divorcing than others, and sometimes it can take years to get over this life-changing moment.
Putting the emotional issues aside, you still need to consider the stresses of the legal process. Even filling out paperwork and gathering financial documents can be tiresome, and that is before you consider the long, drawn-out divorce trial you may be facing. Why are litigated divorces so stressful? Why does this process take such a toll on spouses? Is there a better way?
If you are looking to minimize the stress of a litigated divorce, you might want to reach out to a qualified divorce attorney in North Carolina who has experience with collaborative law. Our legal professionals can introduce you to an alternative to trial-based divorces. Collaborative divorce allows you to sidestep the stresses of a litigated divorce entirely by handling matters behind closed doors. If you would like to learn more, book a consultation with one of our legal professionals at your earliest convenience.
Trials Can Take a Long Time to ResolveTrials can be stressful simply because of how long they take to resolve. When you are waiting months or years to move on with your life, you might start to feel like there is something weighing you down, preventing you from experiencing life to the fullest. In contrast, a collaborative divorce can be resolved in a matter of weeks or even days.
Trials Can Be CostlyWe all know that money issues can cause all kinds of stress. When you are continuously shelling out money for legal fees and lawyer costs, you can start to lose confidence. What happens if you spend all this money and you still do not achieve a positive resolution? In contrast, collaborative divorce is much cheaper and involves fewer legal fees.
Trials Demand Constant AttentionTrials can easily consume your entire life until they are fully resolved. Whether you are sitting at home trying to relax or pursuing your career, it may seem like your divorce trial is always on your mind. You might also get a call in the middle of the day with demands that you provide certain information. You will then be forced to drop everything and satisfy the court’s demands. In many ways, going through a trial is like having a full-time job.
Friends Taking SidesUnfortunately, divorce trials can cause issues with your friends and families. These individuals might be forced to “take sides” when they testify on the behalf of spouses. People who you have known for decades might turn their backs on you, and it can be incredibly stressful to watch your social circle fall apart in such a spectacular fashion.
Bitterness and Resentment After Final DecisionsThe stress does not even end after the trial comes to a conclusion. Certain decisions may leave spouses feeling bitter and resentful, and these feelings can linger, festering over time and becoming unbearable. Although a judge will do everything in their power to prevent this from happening, the truth is that they do not understand the ins and outs of your family. Despite their best intentions, they may make decisions that frustrate both spouses.
The Effect on Your ChildrenFinally, it is important to understand the negative effect of a divorce trial on your children. Watching parents “slug it out” during a trial can be quite detrimental. In contrast, a collaborative divorce allows you to handle your problems in private – away from the eyes of your children. A collaborative divorce also shows your children that you are willing to cooperate and work together, which can be an encouraging thought for young ones.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney TodayIf you have been searching the North Carolina area for a qualified, experienced divorce attorney, look no further than Arnold & Smith, PLLC. Over the years, we have helped numerous spouses avoid the stresses of a divorce trial by guiding them through the collaborative divorce process. This alternative presents many benefits in addition to a lower level of stress. These include fewer costs, more freedom of choice, and many others. Book your consultation today to learn more about the benefits of collaborative divorce. If you are ready to move forward with this process, we can guide you through the next steps and help you walk away from your marriage.