You’ve reached a point where parting ways with your spouse seems like the only rational solution, yet the legal process isn’t moving as swiftly as you hoped. You need to recognize if your spouse is playing hardball to hinder the dissolution of your marriage. Here are four reasons your spouse might try to delay your divorce. With this information, you and your legal team can determine how to handle the situation going forward.
They’re Playing Financial Games
Finances become a focal point in a divorce, and some spouses may use the time during the divorce process to shield assets, incur more debt, or dissipate marital funds. These financial maneuvers can significantly complicate the post-divorce landscape. Watch for signs such as sudden changes in spending habits, secretive or unexplained transactions, or an unwillingness to provide financial information. An astute attorney and financial advisor can help you unravel these tactics.
They Want Manipulation and Control
Control can be a powerful motivator, especially in the context of a relationship dissolution. Your spouse could be exerting control over the situation by delaying the inevitable. This can manifest as last-minute requests for amendments to the divorce terms, repeatedly rescheduling appointments, or manipulating your emotional state to stall the process. Recognizing these behaviors empowers you to assert your needs and can even inform discussions with your spouse about seeking professional mediation.
They’re Planning for Strategic Legal Advantages
The legal strategy might push a spouse to delay the divorce process. For instance, if a change in child custody might be advantageous after a certain date, your spouse may delay proceedings until those factors align in their favor. This underscores the importance of a proactive approach with your legal counsel and potentially hiring a private investigator to uncover any underlying motives or actions that might be in the works.
They Don’t Want a Divorce
Spouses who resist divorce might employ delay tactics in the hope of reconciliation or as a form of protest. This stance can be a reaction to the shock of the situation or a genuine desire to maintain the marriage. If this is the case, open lines of communication or seeking counseling might be more fruitful than pursuing a legalistic approach. It’s also important to clearly understand what happens if your spouse opposes the divorce petition, such as attending mandatory mediation sessions.
Practical Steps To Overcome Divorce Delays
When dealing with intentional delays in your divorce, stay strategic and calm. Document any delay tactics by your spouse, as this evidence is key in court. Keep your legal team informed and get tailored advice on countering strategies, like filing motions or seeking court help. And remember to prioritize self-care and seek support from loved ones or a therapist.
Recognizing and understanding the motivations and reasons your spouse might try to delay your divorce is crucial. By staying informed and proactive, you can mitigate the impacts of these delays and ensure that the process moves forward smoothly and swiftly, making your divorce as painless as possible. Whether it’s financial, emotional, or strategic reasons, knowing why your spouse might drag their feet on divorce is the first step toward regaining control and moving on with your life.
