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Divorce Mediation and Litigation: Which Do You Need?
If you recently decided to dissolve your marriage, you are likely aware that you have more than one option available. Depending on the specifics of your case, mediation or litigation may be more appropriate for you.
Mediation is a more collaborative approach to divorce that allows both parties to maintain more control over the terms of their divorce. It is designed for spouses who are willing to work with one another. If you and your spouse are unable or unwilling to cooperate, litigation is likely the only option.
The Psychological Effects Divorce Can Have on Children
Divorce can have profound psychological effects on children. The extent of those effects may differ from one child to the next. However, there are specific measures parents can take to minimize the psychological impact of divorce on their children.
In the United States and other Western countries, the divorce rate has steadily increased since the 1960s. According to a paper from the National Library of Medicine, approximately 60% of children live in a household where their biological parents are married.
Maintaining Good Mental Health During Divorce
Divorce can be a difficult experience for everyone concerned. No matter the factors leading up to a divorce, it still means the death of a marriage. It can cause emotional pain and deep psychological distress that may prevent you from moving forward. For these reasons, it is critical to prioritize your mental health when you are going through a divorce.
First Things to Do When You’ve Chosen Divorce
Getting a divorce can be agonizing for everyone involved, especially the two spouses and their children. Whether you saw it coming for a while, or if your partner made a sudden decision that caught you totally off guard, divorce is an emotional process.
As soon as you know that you’re headed for a divorce, it’s important to find a good divorce attorney right away. The decisions you make now will affect you and your children for the rest of your life. You’ll want to have an attorney by your side who will help protect you, your children, and your financial security.
Navigating a High-Conflict Divorce
Although divorce often has an inherently adversarial tone, high-conflict cases are far more contentious and challenging to navigate. This situation can make it very challenging for divorcing couples to achieve a fair settlement. At Nottage and Ward, LLP our Chicago family law attorneys are experienced in handling high-conflict divorces and could provide the skilled representation and assistance you need to resolve your case.
With an experienced legal team on your side, you could better negotiate and settle the most problematic issues in your divorce. Your attorney could act as an intermediary, keeping emotions in check and working to minimize conflicts.
Why Attorneys Shouldn’t Represent Themselves in Divorce Cases
We have all heard the old adage, “A man who represents himself has a fool for a client.” This pertains to attorneys as well as the average man on the street, including lawyers representing themselves in divorce proceedings.
Divorce is common in the U.S., and lawyers are not immune. In fact, divorce rates may be even higher in the legal profession due to the stress, long hours, taking a toll on a relationship and a marriage. Many lawyers prioritize their careers, which can put a strain on a marriage and life at home. For attorneys going through divorce, representing oneself can present unique challenges, even for those who specialize in divorce and family law.
Can Secret Recordings or Photos of Your Spouse Be Evidence?
If you plan on getting divorced, you might wonder what evidence you can use in your case. In Illinois, questions on whether secret recordings or photos can be used as evidence are common. It can be tempting to record your spouse secretly if their behavior behind doors is much different from what they portray in public. Read on to find out whether you can use secret recordings of your partner as evidence and what is accepted as evidence in Illinois.
Divorcing Complications for Doctors
Divorce can be a complicated, stressful process, regardless of your profession. Divorcing doctors typically have unique issues to deal with that can make the process even more complex than it might be for the average couple. The following may be key areas of concern for doctors going through a divorce.
Divorcing a Violent or Dangerous Person
Divorce is difficult under any circumstances. When the person you are divorcing is violent or dangerous, it can be even more traumatic, particularly when children are involved. If your spouse has threatened to retaliate, you may be afraid to leave or file for divorce. Special preparations may be needed to exit the relationship safely.
Divorcing a Narcissist
Narcissism is generally defined as a personality trait where a person has an inflated sense of their own importance, an intense desire for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. People who have narcissistic personality disorder tend to be very arrogant, haughty, and conceited with an over-inflated view of their own intelligence, attractiveness, or skills.
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