Atkinson & Kelsey Law Firm Blog

Maintaining a friendship after divorce

New Mexico residents that are in the midst of getting a divorce may wonder about what will happen once the process is completed. A split often causes hard feelings, and many spouses hold onto that bitterness or bickering long after the marriage is dissolved. However, many couples are discovering the benefits in remaining friends after they have gone through a divorce.

In Feb. 2012, one couple divorced after being married 17 years. However, they decided to still observe holiday traditions for the benefit of their 12 and 14-year-old boys. The father stopped at the mother’s home to help decorate the Christmas tree as a family. On Christmas Day, he planned to return so they could all share breakfast and the opening of presents. While it may seem unusual for former partners to set aside their grievances, more and more people are realizing that it is not necessary to be hostile.

Now, there are situations where couples simply cannot continue to get along. A new partner may be jealous of a former spouse, or a former spouse may be unable to let go and move on. In cases where a former spouse has mental health or substance abuse problems, or who could become violent, it may be better to cut ties following divorce. But for many people, the children provide an excellent reason to at least try to maintain civility. Raising children is difficult enough without removing one parent from the equation.

A family law attorney may be able to assist a spouse seeking an amicable divorce or going through mediation. The attorney may also be able to help negotiate a settlement agreement.

Source: USA Today, “Ex-spouses can get along — and not just for the holidays“, Sharon Jayson, December 23, 2013