Divorce is already emotionally exhausting to navigate. When your spouse is refusing to cooperate during the divorce proceedings, this can make the process even more draining. Below, the experienced attorneys at Rodier Family Law discuss how to navigate a difficult divorce and what to do if your spouse is being unreasonable.

Recognize Your Spouse’s Reasoning

A spouse who is not being cooperative is usually motivated by one or more factors during the divorce process. For example, if your divorce announcement was sudden or unexpected, your spouse may be feeling a sense of anger, anxiety or heartbreak moving forward in the process. While it is understandable to go through a heightened emotional period during the process of divorce, you should seek professional help if your spouse’s poor conduct persists or worsens.

Document Useful Evidence

Take note of any behavior or evidence that may be admissible in court. For example, if your spouse is sending you threatening text messages, slandering you on social media, or withdrawing money from a joint bank account you should document these actions and present them to your lawyer. Jot down details of any phone calls the two of you have exchanged during this process, as well. When it comes to a spouse who refuses to engage in the divorce process, evidence is your best ally.

Remain Calm

Your spouse may say harsh things or make false allegations against you throughout your divorce proceeding. It is critical that you remain calm and in control of your emotions. During the divorce process, avoid retaliating, since whatever you say could be used against you later. Concentrate on the bigger pictures in your divorce, such as child custody or appropriately dividing marital property. Refusing to react to what your spouse may say or do during your divorce may work in your favor. They may realize that they are not gaining anything from being uncooperative and eventually may be willing to comply.

Request a Default Divorce

If your spouse is still not acting in a cooperative manner and has not filed a written response after being served with a complaint for divorce in the given time period, you are able to file a request for an Order of Default. If an Order of Default has been entered by the court, and your spouse fails to have the default vacated, the lack of your spouse’s response may be interpreted as an acceptance of your demands.

Discuss Your Options With a Divorce and Separation Attorney at Rodier Family Law

Navigating a divorce where your spouse is being uncooperative can make a high-stress situation even worse. When the decision to divorce is not mutual, the hurt feelings and betrayal can make the process more challenging and even lead to acts of violence, in extreme situations.

Whether you and your spouse have decided to part ways after one year or 50 years together, the need for legal representation never subsides. The family law attorneys at Rodier Family Law are dedicated to supporting clients in Bel Air with issues relating to divorce, child custody, spousal abuse and other family law-related matters. To discuss your options and considerations for a divorce and separation, contact the Bel Air attorneys at Rodier Family Law today.