How Can I Achieve a Peaceful Illinois Divorce?

 Posted on February 11, 2020 in Divorce

"Divorce" and "peaceful" are probably two words that you never thought you would put in the same sentence together, but a peaceful divorce is not as rare as you might think. Amicable divorces are beneficial to everyone involved, especially if you have children. Having a peaceful divorce does not just happen by chance -- you have to not only want it to happen, but you also have to work hard to make it a reality. Although it takes two cooperating spouses to achieve a truly amicable divorce, there are certain things you can do to encourage a tranquil resolution. Below are a few tips to attain the ever-illusive harmonious divorce, which can help everyone with this major life transition.

Be Respectful to One Another

There are a number of common reasons why couples get divorced, some of them being addiction issues (gambling, drugs, or alcohol), infidelity, or even domestic violence. Even though these issues can make it difficult to maintain respect for your spouse, keeping a mutual level of respect between the two of you is important to having a smooth divorce. Arguing or disrespecting your spouse in front of your children can make kids feel like they have to choose sides, which can be detrimental to their emotional well-being. The breakup of the family unit is traumatic enough, so do not add extra stress on them.

Keep Your Expectations Realistic

Having realistic expectations is also important to achieving a peaceful divorce. If you go into your divorce thinking that you absolutely deserve certain things, you are less likely to be cooperative and willing to negotiate, which can escalate tensions. You should go into your divorce with an open mind and understand that there are certain things that you may be entitled to, but you will likely have to compromise on some issues. For example, depending on the allocation of parental responsibilities, you may have to share time with your children during holidays or school breaks, which can be outlined in your parenting plan. During the division of property, you may have to consider selling the marital home if it makes the most financial sense.

Be Honest and Willing to Cooperate

Another keystone to an amicable divorce is your (and your spouse’s) willingness to commit to honesty and cooperation during the divorce process. You should be willing to fully disclose all of your financial information and allow your spouse to have his or her fair share of the marital property. Even if your spouse decides that he or she does not want to be cooperative about certain issues, you can commit to being reasonable while still receiving fair treatment.

Contact a North Aurora Divorce Attorney

One of the key elements of achieving a peaceful divorce is working with a skilled Kane County divorce lawyer who has experience with all kinds of divorces. At the Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C., we can help you and your spouse come to an agreement about all issues pertaining to the dissolution of your marriage, including determinations about parenting time, parental responsibility, and property division. To schedule a private consultation, call us today at 630-409-8184.

Sources:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/robertpagliarini/2019/02/25/4-tips-for-a-more-peaceful-divorce/#2da6fea6411b

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-have-a-peaceful-di_b_7216226

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/resolution-not-conflict/201203/8-guidelines-friendly-divorce