When a spouse demands divorce, it is heartbreaking, whether it was expected or out of the blue. If divorce is not something you want or thought about, your reaction will likely be a mixture of shock, grief, and anger. One spouse asking for divorce is not always the end of a marriage; many couples are able to work out their differences, conflicts, concerns, and misunderstandings. Nonetheless, there is no use dragging a relationship when the other has clearly called quits. It is best to resolve the matter in a civil manner and prevent a contentious litigated divorce. Here’s precisely how you should handle the situation:

1.      Stay calm and composed

Lashing out, breaking down, begging/pleading, screaming, or threatening in response to a request for divorce looks bad. This kind of behavior will only further motivate your spouse to get rid of you. If you want your spouse to change their mind, a calm and composed reaction will help your case. You should appear unfazed and confident if you want them to reconsider the proposition.

2.      Allow them to explain

On average, it takes a person about 2 years before voicing their desire for a divorce. Therefore, you can bet that your spouse has been thinking about terminating the marriage for quite some time. Give them a chance to tell their side of the story; understanding their reasons for wanting the divorce will help you find a way for reconciliation.

3.      Suggest Counselling/Therapy

Marriage counseling and couples therapy has saved many marriages, so you may give it a try if your spouse is willing. If you are partially at fault for problems in the marriage, the experience will help both of you improve as a person and evolve into a better partner.

4.      Give them Space

If your spouse is not ready to give the relationship another chance, let them have their space. Opt for temporary separation instead of forcing them to stay. The time apart will help both of you figure out what you truly want in life, and what is worth holding on to?

5.      Do not ignore the Problem

When you ignore a problem, it does not magically go away. Similarly, when your spouse sends you a divorce notice, not responding will not save the marriage. Your silence will be judged as consent and it will become all the easier for your spouse to leave you.

6.      Get Help

If your spouse’s demand for divorce has left you devastated and depressed, you need emotional support to cope. Do not let the circumstances take toll on your mental and physical health. You need to stay strong and fight back to protect your interests.

7.      Avoid Manipulation and Violence

Preserving your marriage through emotional exploitation, blackmail, and/or offensive behavior is the worst idea. It is beneficial to end the relationship on friendly terms rather than creating ugly drama. Never bring children in-between your disputes. Your spouse can use your manipulation and violence against you in family court.

8.      Educate Yourself

Learn all you can about family and divorce law in your locality. It helps to be prepared for private negotiations and trial tests. Acknowledge all aspects of the divorce and find ways to protect yourself in the aftermath.

9.      Consult Family Lawyers

If you want to retain financial and emotional stability following the divorce, you must utilize the services of Family Law Attorney in San Jose, CA. Your lawyer will guide you through the procedure and represent you during settlement negotiations, mediation, or courtroom trial. They will safeguard your interests and deflect assails from the opposing party.

10. Keep your Demands Reasonable

When the divorce is in progress, it is not uncommon of individuals to get stumped or overzealous. It is wrong to ask for nothing or attempt to grab everything. Do not use the divorce proceedings as a means of revenge on your spouse, and don’t let them dominate you either. The final outcome or settlement should be fair to both parties.