Divorce is a contentious subject for most people. It often carries with it negative associations about angry spouses, bitter fights, money problems, and long days in court.
But a divorce can be done in a healthy manner. One key to this is pursuing what is known as an amicable divorce. Amicable divorces are those which are based on reasonable compromise, remaining positive and civil, as well as finding the best way out for both spouses.
To be sure, an amicable divorce can be challenging during this emotionally charged time. But its benefits are many. Here are just a few reasons you might want to seek this path.
1. You’ll Save Money
Long court battles and endless negotiation cost money to both sides. And the more you dig in while trying to get the most you can, the more you’ll spend on the effort. On the other hand, compromises and fair treatment for both parties mean earlier conclusions. Assess your budget realistically, and decide how much you want to fight for certain aspects of the agreement and where you could best deploy your funds.
2. Your Kids Win
If kids are in the mix, your divorce proceedings have the ability to affect them positively or negatively. Certainly, all parents want good things for their children. So, set a good example even when that is a challenge.
Beyond the fact that you may end up co-parenting with your ex, your children are also a product of both parents and your relationship. Bitter anger at their other parent or the marriage itself could impact your own relationship with them as well as their self-image.
3. You Have Less Negativity
Divorce can create lasting emotional scars. Some divorce battles are worth additional scars, but sometimes they’re not. If you suffered the trauma of a marriage that went wrong, you (and your children) likely won’t benefit by going over and over the issues that led here. You can, though, begin the healing process by building a positive experience starting now.
4. You Set a Good Tone
For many spouses, divorce is not the end of their relationship. Do you share kids? Then you will likely co-parent at least on some level. Do you have financial ties, such as a home or investments, that are not easily untangled? Do you own a business or share a passive income stream? Do you have mutual friends? Do you or your spouse enjoy one another’s family?
If you divorce in any of these situations, keep in mind that the way you divorce will set the tone for your future interactions. What sort of relationship do you want to start now that you are in this new position? This is the time to take control of your own future.
5. You Look at Things Realistically
Some divorce cases involve hundreds of thousands of dollars of property, high-value businesses, or large real estate portfolios. But most divorces are much more modest. Take a realistic assessment of your assets and liabilities, and consider how much you really want to argue over them.
In many states, the law stipulates basic financial aspects of a divorce agreement (such as splitting assets and debts). Washington State, for instance, uses a particular model to pool parents’ income regarding child support needs. After these basics are handled, do you really have much at issue? If not, should you prolong an unresolved situation? Or could you benefit more by starting to move forward?
While not every divorce can be handled in an amicable manner, it may be the right route for you and your family. Learn more about both amicable divorces and more challenging ones by meeting with the legal team at Madison Law Firm, PLLC, today. Armed with knowledge, you will surely make the right decision for your circumstances.