What is the most difficult stage of divorce?

The mechanics of getting divorced can generally be divided into three key stages: the application, conditional order, and final order. But if you have children to think about and finances to sort, these matters also need to be addressed. They can be fraught with difficultly and cause huge amounts of stress, particularly when a settlement cannot be reached.

Along with moving home, losing a loved one, and unemployment, divorce is considered to be one of the most difficult and stressful situations someone can go through. This article sets out the stages of divorce and discusses how they are likely to affect you.

What are the stages of divorce?

Coming to terms with the separation

The most difficult stage of divorce can vary depending on the individual and their own unique set of circumstances. However, for many people, the emotional and psychological impact of divorce can be particularly challenging. This may involve coming to terms with the end of the relationship, dealing with feelings of loss, anger, or betrayal, and adjusting to the changes in lifestyle and family dynamics. Other difficult aspects of divorce can include navigating the legal and financial processes involved in dissolving the marriage, negotiating child arrangements, and dividing property and assets. Additionally, for those who have experienced domestic violence or abuse, leaving an abusive relationship, and ensuring their safety and that of their children, can be extremely challenging and dangerous.

Finances and children

Finances and children matters are likely to be interlaced with emotion and anxiety. Not least because of the uncertainty surrounding where you and your children are going to live and how it will be paid for. Negotiating child arrangements can be difficult and stressful, particularly when parents cannot reach an agreement on their own.  It can also be hard to put aside feelings of anger, hurt, or resentment towards the other parent and approach discussions in a calm and constructive manner. Parents must try to find a way to co-parent effectively, but this can be challenging if there is still tension or conflict between the parents, or if one parent is unwilling to follow the agreed-upon arrangements.

Sorting out financial matters can be complex, and it can be bewildering wondering what the final outcome will be. This can create feelings of anxiety, particularly if there is disagreement between the parties on certain aspects of the financial settlement that cannot seem to be resolved.

Divorce can be a stressful time, and disagreements about financial matters can exacerbate these feelings. It is a delicate balancing act, particularly if one party is seeking a larger settlement than the other or involves complex issues, such as property division, pensions, and spousal maintenance. There is also the added worry of whether you will cope with the financial impact of the divorce, particularly if there is a large discrepancy in income or assets.

Overall, divorce is a complex and multifaceted process that can be difficult to navigate, and it is important for individuals going through it to seek support from friends, family members, or legal professionals. Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations, and what one person counts as stressful, another will not. But however you feel, it is important to understand it is a temporary situation, and you will come out the other side.