When your personal life gets hit by a wrecking ball, and you’re knee-deep in a legal and emotional swamp, the last thing you want is to become the town’s hot topic. Let’s face it; nobody wants to be the subject of watercooler chat, office gossip, or even worse, a star of your own Jerry Springer episode. So, let’s learn how to navigate a divorce like a boss, come out unscathed, with your head held high, and with your reputation (mostly) intact.
Keep it On the DL: Choose a Peaceful & Private Approach to Divorce
If you want to keep your personal business, well, personal, the first step is to try and keep things under wraps. We’re talking about keeping those juicy details out of the spotlight and under lock and key. Don’t worry, you’ve got options. Whatever you choose, just remember, loose lips sink ships, so keep those proceedings private.
Negotiated Divorce
This gem of a process allows you and your ex to settle your differences without stepping foot in a courtroom. Not only is it faster and cheaper than a contested divorce, but it also keeps your dirty laundry out of the public eye. No more airing your personal and financial details for all the world to see! With a negotiated divorce, you get to keep your private information private. Plus, you get to be the boss of the outcome and protect your reputation, with the help of your attorney.
Mediated Divorce
If you want to keep your divorce on the down low, mediation is another great option. With mediation, you work with a mediator who’ll help you and your ex find some middle ground. No more court-imposed resolutions! This collective approach could even result in a more satisfactory outcome. And did we mention it’s less formal? That means more flexibility to address your unique needs and circumstances. It’s also confidential and private, so you can save face and reduce the emotional toll of a court battle. And just like negotiation, it’s quicker and cheaper than a contested divorce, so you and your ex can get on with your fabulous lives.
Collaborative Divorce
Last but not least, we’ve got the big kahuna of divorce options: collaborative divorce. This method involves assembling a dream team of professionals, including attorneys and financial specialists, to help you and your ex reach a settlement agreement. This process is all about avoiding the stress and public scrutiny of a traditional litigated divorce. Plus, you get to work with a team of experts who’ll guide you through the entire process. So, if you want to keep things private and make it rain with your settlement agreement, a collaborative divorce might just be the option for you.
Regain Control: Opt for a Private Judge, AKA Arbitration
If you’re really looking to keep things under wrap during your divorce, you might want to consider going with a private judge, AKA arbitration. This alternative dispute resolution option involves selecting an impartial third-party arbitrator to make a final and binding decision on any issues in dispute. And honestly, sometimes it’s just easier for everyone if a neutral third party makes some of these tough decisions for you. Unlike court, arbitration is a little more chill, and the rules of evidence and procedure may be more relaxed. The arbitrator’s decision is final and binding on the parties, but it can still be subject to review by a court in limited circumstances.
Compared to your typical court proceeding, arbitration is generally faster, cheaper, and definitely more private. And get this, you get to choose the arbitrator and set the rules of the proceeding, so you’ve got a lot more control than you would in court. It’s like being the captain of your own ship, navigating the choppy waters of divorce. Plus, you get a tailored and efficient resolution of the issues in dispute, so you can move on with your life ASAP.
Of course, there are some downsides to consider. Sometimes, the arbitrator’s decision may not be as well-reasoned or detailed as a court decision, so keep that in mind. And some people may prefer the accountability and transparency of a court proceeding to the more informal and private nature of arbitration. So think it through and talk to your lawyer to help you choose the best option for you.
For the Love of God, Stop Subtweeting
In this age of constant connection, social media can be a double-edged sword when it comes to your divorce. It’s all too easy for negative comments or embarrassing details to get out there and wreak havoc on your reputation. So, what can you do to protect yourself? One option is to include a social media clause in your settlement agreement. This can put the kibosh on any online mud-slinging and prevent your spouse from sabotaging your good name. But hey, don’t forget to look in the mirror and check your own posts too!
It’s time to stop with the subtweeting, depressing Facebook posts, and passive-aggressive Instagram comments. Seriously, your ex is not going to magically become a better person just because you complained about them online. And let’s be real, no one wants to see a post that screams, “my life is falling apart.” Keep it classy, not sassy, and avoid oversharing personal information or airing your dirty laundry online. Because, at the end of the day, the internet is forever, and you don’t want your angry rants to come back and bite you in the butt during your divorce proceedings.
Here are some additional ways to keep your social media drama-free:
- Avoid posting about your divorce or making negative comments about your spouse on social media
- Limit the amount of personal information you share online
- Make your social media accounts private
- DO NOT delete any existing negative or potentially damaging posts without discussing your attorney
- Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want a judge to see
A good rule: Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want your best friend, your clergyperson or spiritual leader, and your worst enemy to see – all at the same time. Or on a billboard.
Don’t Give Your Ex Any Ammunition in the Courtroom
You’ve heard it on TV, “Anything you say or do during your divorce can and will be used against you in a court of law.” Even your innocent text messages, social media posts, and casual chitchats with friends and family can come back to haunt you. So, watch what you say and do during your divorce, especially when it comes to sensitive information or negative comments about your ex.
Here is a list of items that can be used against you in court:
- Adultery or infidelity
- Substance misuse, abuse, or addiction
- Financial irregularities or fraud
- Domestic violence or abuse
- Hiding or transferring assets
- Provoking arguments or fights
- Parental neglect or abuse
- Dishonesty in legal documents or under oath
- Unfit or harmful behavior as a parent
- Violating a court order or agreement
- Running through the streets in your underwear, yelling profanities
Keep in mind that emotions are high during this stressful time, and you are likely to say things that may not reflect your true feelings and character. Being extra careful of what you say and do will help protect you from more stress down the road and in the courtroom.
Find a Rock Star Lawyer to Protect You
Choosing a lawyer you trust is absolutely essential! Your lawyer is your ride-or-die, your BFF, your partner in crime – okay, maybe not that last one, but you get the point. You need someone who knows their stuff, negotiates like a boss, and kicks butt in the courtroom, all while making you feel like you’re in good hands.
Don’t rush into this decision. Take your time and do your research. Ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have been through a divorce, or check out online reviews. But most importantly, trust your gut. You need to feel confident and comfortable communicating with your lawyer because you’ll be working together for a while.
Lay Low and Focus on Yourself & Your Littles
It’s easy to get caught up in the drama and stress of a divorce, but it’s important to take care of yourself too. That means no more negative self-talk or lashing out at your soon-to-be ex. Instead, try some positive self-care activities like yoga, binge-watching your favorite show, or spending extra time with some supportive friends and family. If you need some extra help, consider talking to a therapist or counselor. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and taking care of it now will pay off in the long run.
If you have kids, make sure to give them some extra love and attention during this time. They’re going through a tough time too, and they need your support. Consider children’s counseling or taking them out for a fun day to distract them from the chaos.
Remember, there are plenty of online support groups and resources available to help you get through this. You are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with seeking help when you need it. Stay strong, and take care of yourself.
Protecting Your Reputation & Happiness
So, I hear you’re looking for a team of badass attorneys who don’t mess around and are focused on you? Look no further than Keith Family Law! When the going gets tough, we get even tougher, fighting tooth and nail to get you the results you deserve. So when you’re feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, let us be your safe harbor through the storm. We’ll work tirelessly to protect your rights, meet your needs, and make you feel heard and understood. Let’s kick some legal butt together.
