Divorce is often difficult for the spouses involved and even more so in high-conflict situations. A high-conflict divorce involves serious disagreements, hostility between the former partners and emotional stress. The parties may disagree with fundamental parts of the divorce, including property division, child custody and spousal support.
Common aspects of high-conflict divorce
A high conflict divorce can be lengthy because when the spouses cannot agree, they may have to make multiple trips to court for hearings and other legal proceedings. These may include restraining orders, modification requests and contempt of court actions, for example. As a result, they often also incur more fees for court costs, legal work and professional services.
Effects of high-conflict divorce
In addition to the uncertainty and lack of resolution that a high conflict divorce can cause, there are also other effects. If the couple has children, it can cause them to suffer emotional distress and may have a long-term impact on their well-being if they witness tension between their parents.
It can also cause the spouses to have difficulty co-parenting because of their inability to communicate with each other about important decisions and their lack of cooperation. In some situations, the spouses can suffer physical effects from the stress, like interrupted sleep, weight changes and other health issues.
A high-conflict divorce can also have a negative effect on future relationships and social isolation when friends and family do not want to choose a side.
If a couple needs help resolving the issues involved in their high-conflict divorce, there is assistance available.
