YUMA, Arizona. Many divorce lawyers and judges might assume that in any high-conflict divorce, both parties might be somewhat responsible for the conflict and for the divorce. And, in many cases, both parties often have a role to play in high-conflict divorces. However, for women trying to leave an abusive situation, the steps she might be taking in self-defense could be easily misconstrued by the court as being high-conflict. For example, according to Psychology Today , a narcissist might try to sabotage divorce proceedings at every step or might take steps to delay or drag out the process. From the position of the judge or lawyers, it might appear that both parties are fighting and not giving in. This is why it is paramount if you are leaving an emotionally or physically abusive situation that you get qualified help from a divorce lawyer, in Yuma, Arizona like Schneider & Onofry, P.C. According to one writer for Psychology Today , it is entirely possible for one party in the divorce to be the main driver of conflict.

What are some steps you can take to protect yourself in a high-conflict divorce? If you have children, you might have to accept the fact that you and your ex will be sharing custody. The courts tend to favor arrangements that promote the child’s relationship to both parents, so barring endangerment or violence or abuse, you’ll need to find a parenting plan that works. Of course, if you fear for your child’s safety, it is important to take protective steps. A divorce lawyer like Schneider & Onofry, P.C. can review your case, review any history of violence, and help you navigate the legal system to get the best possible outcome.

When it comes to custody, there are ways you can mitigate conflict. Exchanging the children in a neutral space, or better yet, having a babysitter take care of the transition, might be best for both parties. If your divorce is high-conflict, any communication could potentially be contentious. It is often in the interest of both parties to limit communication. There are many child custody applications available that allow you to set boundaries with an ex while also still being able to properly co-parent.

Even if you don’t have children, a high-conflict divorce will often involve one person who is in it to “win.” Unfortunately, when it comes to divorce, there are no winners or losers, just compromise. Still, it can be difficult to navigate a divorce when one person has a win-lose mentality. Furthermore, in high conflict divorces, one partner may try to deflect the blame on the other party. One party may try to portray the other as the one having the problem. When it comes to divorcing a narcissist, the narcissist can often be charming and may use this charm to sway a judge or a jury.

Are you facing a high-conflict divorce? Are you concerned that your divorce case might drag on? If you are struggling with a high-conflict divorce, consider speaking to the qualified divorce attorneys at Schneider & Onofry, P.C. today.

Schneider & Onofry, P.C. 207 W. 2nd St. Yuma, AZ 85364

928-257-4887