Talking to a soon-to-be ex-spouse can be challenging. While you can communicate with them through your attorney, at times, it can be beneficial to make the contact yourself. But how can you do that effectively?
Below are four tips for communicating with your spouse during divorce:
1. Only communicate when necessary
You and your spouse should only talk when necessary. For example, when you want to discuss a temporary parenting plan or when you believe their list of marital assets is inaccurate.
Consider developing boundaries beforehand of what can be discussed and what to leave to the attorneys. For example, you can decide not to discuss the past. You will only talk about present matters that affect the divorce (property, children and so on) – not issues that led to the divorce.
2. Communicate with them when you are calm
Contacting your soon-to-be ex-spouse when you are upset can worsen matters. Thus, always communicate with them when you are calm. For example, when you notice their list of assets is inaccurate, which means they may be hiding assets, take time before contacting them. Angry outbursts may make your divorce more complicated.
3. Choose a communication method
You and your spouse should agree on a communication channel to use. You may contact each other through phone calls, text messages, email or face-to-face meetings. Choose what you are comfortable with. You should also agree on how to communicate during emergencies.
4. Take time before responding
When your spouse sends you a message, you don’t need to respond immediately. Anything you say can disadvantage you. Therefore, take time to come up with a considerate and informed response to avoid misunderstandings.
Legal guidance can help you communicate effectively with your soon-to-be ex-spouse throughout the divorce process.