If you are going through a divorce and your Louisiana spouse is creating a great deal of conflict, this can add a number of significant challenges to the process. This is often referred to as a toxic divorce, and it is usually a one-sided situation in which one individual is trying to make decisions that are reasonably fair while the other is more focused on hurting the other person.
Understanding the dynamic
When you are on the receiving end of this behavior, it is critical that any professionals that you hire understand the dynamics of the situation so that they have strategies to manage it. One tendency of the toxic person in a divorce is to follow the letter rather than the spirit of any court orders. This might include dropping off children at the most inconvenient time for you or the kids rather than focusing on what is in the best interest of the children.
Resources
There are also tools that can help protect you from a toxic spouse. If there is a threat of violence, you might be able to get a protective order. However, even if you are not concerned about your safety or that of your children, there are other ways a spouse can attempt to hurt you in a divorce, including financially. A court-appointed judge may be able to help you obtain child support. A forensic accountant may be helpful if your spouse is trying to hide assets.
Self-care
Navigating a toxic divorce can be exhausting. In addition to driving up your stress levels, it can also take much longer and be more expensive than a low-conflict divorce. Having the support of friends, family and perhaps even a professional, such as a counselor or therapist, can help you better manage the situation. Self-care is particularly important if children are involved.
