There’s bound to be some conflict involved when a couple decides to go their separate ways. Even couples who are on good terms may struggle when making parenting and financial decisions. However, many divorcing dads find that their situation is much more contentious. They may anticipate high conflict behavior because of how their marriage ended, or they might be surprised by their ex’s sudden demeanor shift.
If you anticipate lying, nasty behaviors, and a battle for assets and custody now that your marriage is ending, you may be facing a high conflict divorce. This type of divorce can certainly be challenging, but you can take steps to protect yourself.
Here are three warning signs to look out for as you prepare for your divorce. If you notice any of the following signs at the start of your divorce, it’s important that you contact divorce lawyers for men in New Jersey to protect yourself and prepare for any challenges you may face during your high conflict divorce.
There are substantial assets up for grabs
When a couple has accumulated wealth during their marriage, it’s likely that both spouses have contributed to that wealth in one way or another. It makes sense that both of you should walk away with an equitable portion of those assets. But if your spouse feels entitled to more than her fair share, you may end up in court. The divorcing couple has the power to negotiate the terms of the property division, but if one or both spouses aren’t willing to cooperate, a judge will probably have the final say. You may quickly realize that negotiation isn’t an option if your ex refuses to compromise when it comes to dividing these assets.
Your spouse is a narcissist
Partners who have certain personality traits and disorders tend to lead inherently higher conflict lives. One great example is narcissists. Many people who have narcissistic tendencies will do whatever it takes to “win” during a divorce. If your wife is a narcissist, appearances are probably very important to her, and she may be willing to pull out all the stops to get what she wants. A New Jersey high conflict divorce attorney can spot your narcissist wife’s tactics and will know how to respond before things get out of hand.
A divorce often brings out the worst in people. If your spouse lied, was unfaithful, or deceived you in any other way during your marriage, things aren’t going to start looking up once you file for divorce. Many divorcing spouses won’t hesitate to lie about finances and parenting in the hopes of getting their way. You’ll need to work with your attorney to compile extensive records and counteract your ex’s deception.
Your ex uses the kids as pawns
Many dads worry that they won’t get to see their kids after the divorce. They assume their ex will have more parenting time just because she is a mother. While this isn’t usually the case, a wife who isn’t pleased that her husband wants a divorce may prey on these fears to try to upset him or to get her way.
If your spouse has been making threats about your parenting time since the moment she was served with divorce papers, anticipate a high conflict divorce and custody battle. Don’t panic yet; many New Jersey high conflict divorce lawyers are also pros at negotiating custody. If your wife is not allowing you to see your kids during your divorce, your attorney can help you secure scheduled parenting time.
High Conflict Divorce Lawyers for Men in New Jersey
If you anticipate a high conflict divorce, it pays to make a plan. Get ahead of any issues you may face with the division of your assets or child custody by speaking to a family law attorney. The Micklin Law Group’s attorneys are available for both in person and virtual consultations. Give us a call at 973-562-0100 to learn more.
