One of the most challenging aspects of being a family law attorney is not always having the precise advice to offer clients in every situation. While we possess a deep understanding of the law and potential outcomes, there are moments where providing the perfect guidance becomes incredibly difficult. Despite our readiness, there are instances where finding the exact words of advice proves elusive. This challenge underscores the importance of thorough preparation, particularly in mediation in Texas.
Thus, we strive to equip you with the necessary knowledge and guidance. We also recognize the complexity of each unique situation and the limitations in providing singular, perfect advice.
I see this happen when clients are having to “deal” with their spouse in matters during the divorce. Whether it is coordinating the payment of bills, the putting of their house on the real estate market or working through visitation issues regarding their children, it is undoubtedly an awkward situation to have to work with your spouse so closely during a process that will serve to separate the two of you.
How can you best work with your spouse during the divorce? Let’s begin today’s blog post from the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC by discussing that topic in detail
Working Successfully With Your Spouse During a Divorce
During a divorce, it’s wise not to view your spouse as an “ex-spouse.” This label can undermine the respect they deserve. Thinking of them in this way may lead to dismissive attitudes. Instead, regarding your spouse as someone with whom you must maintain cordiality and resolve issues is a more constructive approach.
It begins with maintaining professionalism. Taking cheap shots and being unpleasant to your spouse during divorce proceedings won’t help your case. You can achieve your objectives while still treating your spouse with respect and maturity. This approach is not only possible but also the correct way to conduct yourself during a divorce.
For one, you catch a lot more flies with honey than with vinegar. I have seen no proof from other attorneys that being a jerk and a pain in the backside to deal with actually accomplishes more than being a civil and dignified person. Again, you will likely never get the satisfaction (temporary satisfaction, I may add) that is associated with calling your spouse on the phone to give him or her a piece of your mind, but you can help achieve your goals much easier by keeping your spouse on your good side.
If your spouse doesn’t adhere to these rules, it may be more challenging for you to maintain them. For example, if your spouse spent much of the weekend criticizing you in front of your daughter, it’s natural to feel frustrated. Instead of escalating the disrespect in front of your child, you can choose to rise above it. Make it clear to your child that such behavior is unacceptable, but refrain from reciprocating and maintain your composure.
Social Media Usage During Your Divorce
One of my favorite topics to discuss in the area of divorce is the use and prevalence of social media. Just about all of us have some form of social media available to us. That means we have ample opportunity to use it for good or bad. I can tell you that almost all users of social media during your divorce will work out to be on the “bad” side of that ledger.
The reason why most social media use is bad during a divorce is that it is hard to say using it in any way is actually a positive for your case. There is just very little to gain when it comes to social media use during a divorce.
An offhand comment or posting a photo without thinking about its context or meaning can have important impacts on your case. The use of social media postings as evidence in divorce cases is extremely prevalent. My advice would be to log off the internet for a few months and to stay away from social media during your divorce.
How You Can Avoid Uncomfortable Conversations That Are Ultimately Unproductive
If your divorce is one where there are a couple of moments or issues that almost all of the acrimony in your marriage is based around then it is hard to avoid those issues coming up in conversation. Infidelity, violence, and things of that nature are what I have in mind. So much of a divorce involves you and your spouse negotiating with each other and with the assistance of your attorneys. If you are seeking to end a divorce in an amicable fashion you will need to change your mode of conversation.
Try talking with your spouse about the future rather than the past. Trying to re-litigate every minute issue in your divorce is asking for trouble. How do you want to co-parent with this person? How do you plan on taking steps to actually improve your relationship with your spouse after the divorce?
You are going to be expected to be an effective parenting team with this person if you have kids. If you don’t have any children you can expect that your spouse will be more willing to negotiate with a pleasant person than a person who is irate over incidents that cannot be changed.
Mediation Preparation in Texas: What to Do After Your Divorce Is Finalized
If you have followed the tips that we have been laying out for all of you in the past few days you probably made it through your divorce just fine and with most of your sanity still intact. However, just because the judge has signed your Final Decree of Divorce does not mean that you can sit back and kick up your feet. There is still work to be done to ensure that your divorce is completed in all aspects.
I’d say that most people who get divorced never actually take the time to sit down and read through their Final Decree of Divorce. It is up to you to make sure that you know what it says. Yes, I realize that by your having signed the document it is assumed and presumed that you have read every single word on every single page. However, we all know that would be an unrealistic expectation and assumption to make.
You need to know what your responsibilities are under the Decree and what dates you are required to do things by. Ignorance of what is required of you is no defense for your failure to make a payment on time or to drop your child off at the scheduled time and location.
Next, review your life insurance policies and will to update beneficiaries and outdated details. It would be upsetting to realize after your divorce that your estate goes entirely to your ex-spouse because you didn’t update your will post-divorce.
Questions about the divorce process? Contact the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC
The attorneys with the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC are ready and able to assist you in your divorce case. We take pride in representing people just like you in our community. For a free of charge consultation with one of our licensed family law attorneys please do not hesitate to contact our office today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Preparing for mediation in Texas involves gathering necessary documents, understanding your goals, and being ready to communicate openly with the other party.
During mediation in Texas, expect a neutral mediator to facilitate discussions between parties, with the goal of reaching a mutually agreeable resolution.
Prepare for a mediation meeting by reviewing your case, organizing relevant documents, and being ready to engage in constructive dialogue.
Mediation in Texas follows specific guidelines, such as confidentiality, neutrality of the mediator, and voluntary participation.
The 5 steps of mediation typically include opening statements, joint discussions, private caucuses, negotiation, and reaching a settlement agreement.
The duration of mediation in Texas varies depending on the complexity of the case, but it usually takes a few hours to a full day.
Whether to settle at mediation depends on your specific situation and goals. Consider the proposed agreement carefully before making a decision.
While not required, having a lawyer during mediation in Texas can provide legal guidance and ensure your interests are protected.
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Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC | Houston, Texas Divorce Lawyers
The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC routinely handles matters that affect children and families. If you have questions regarding divorce, it’s important to speak with one of our Houston, TX Divorce Lawyers right away to protect your rights.
Our divorce lawyers in Houston TX are skilled at listening to your goals during this trying process and developing a strategy to meet those goals. Contact Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC by calling (281) 810-9760 or submit your contact information in our online form.
Bryan Fagan, a native of Atascocita, Texas, is a dedicated family law attorney inspired by John Grisham’s “The Pelican Brief.” He is the first lawyer in his family, which includes two adopted brothers. Bryan’s commitment to family is personal and professional; he cared for his grandmother with Alzheimer’s while completing his degree and attended the South Texas College of Law at night.
Married with three children, Bryan’s personal experiences enrich his understanding of family dynamics, which is central to his legal practice. He specializes in family law, offering innovative and efficient legal services. A certified member of the College of the State Bar of Texas, Bryan is part of an elite group of legal professionals committed to ongoing education and high-level expertise.
His legal practice covers divorce, custody disputes, property disputes, adoption, paternity, and mediation. Bryan is also experienced in drafting marital property agreements. He leads a team dedicated to complex family law cases and protecting families from false CPS allegations.
Based in Houston, Bryan is active in the Houston Family Law Sector of the Houston Bar Association and various family law groups in Texas. His deep understanding of family values and his professional dedication make him a compassionate advocate for families navigating Texas family law.
