Divorce can be fractious, frustrating, tiring, and require big shifts in your family arrangement. It can also be confusing, which adds more tension to the previous difficulties. However, while interpersonal emotions and difficulties in understanding a path forward can take some time to work out, it’s important helpful to note that making this process clear and managing the schedule appropriately can afford you more energy to get through it all.
Put simply – muddling through the confusion of divorce can be a task in itself, but it’s more than possible to achieve with some helpful pointers. We intend to assist you in that light. Without further ado, please consider some of the appropriate advice in this helpful guide:
Understand Legal Terms & Definitions
As with any matter processed through courts and lawyers, divorce comes with a lot of legal jargon that can be confusing. It’s worth taking some time to familiarize yourself with common terms, and even uncommon ones, such as the definition of pendente lite. Words like “custody,” “alimony,” and “mediation” will come up often so understanding them will save you some time. If you don’t live in the US, these might be called by different names.
Don’t be afraid to ask your lawyer to explain things in simpler terms. It’s their job to help you understand and that’s what you’re paying them for. It will help you save energy for the actual management of your daily obligations. As for that:
Ask About Your Obligations
It’s important to remember that both parties have certain responsibilities here. That might include financial disclosures, attending court dates, or following temporary custody schedules, and going through mediation to agree on all of this.
Make sure you know exactly what’s expected of you, or ask your lawyer to provide a clear list of your obligations and deadlines so you don’t get them confused. This helps you avoid missing important steps that could complicate the final outcome due to a genuine mistake on your part.
Manage A Strict Digital Calendar
With so many appointments, deadlines, and commitments to deal with during your divorce, staying organized is hard, but possible. A digital calendar is worth using, be that Notion, Evernote, Google Keep Calendar, or another that you prefer depending on the digital suits you use.
Use it to track court dates, meetings with your lawyer, co-parenting schedules, and deadlines for paperwork. They may set up a schedule with you as they onboard you as a client. Set reminders for important tasks if you can, so you’re aware of them days in advance. It’s easy to forget when you’re dealing with a tough time emotionally, and so having this in place is helpful.
Maintain Your Children’s Routine & By Extension Your Own
As best as you can, try to keep your children’s routines as normal as possible, including reliable bedtimes, meal times, and after-school clubs depending on their lifestyle. This stability is good for your kids, and it can help you too. Let them keep up with their hobbies too, such as drawing, trading cards, or even video games for a calm escape. Having a predictable routine gives structure to your days during an otherwise difficult time for everyone, and it may also free up time for self-care, like enjoying a relaxing bath or getting a bit more sleep. This can also help you during a tough emotional time.
With this advice, you’ll be sure to muddle through the confusion of divorce with care.
