By now, everyone has been well acquainted with various changes that have affected our lives. In the context of divorce, the pandemic has created many problems for people.
It's a good idea to revise expectations. Many people going through divorces have heard horror stories from family and friends about their divorces. While we have always cautioned people from assuming what they have heard from others would apply in their divorces, it is even more likely now that that the experience of others doesn't fit into the COVID world we are living through.
On the other hand, here are some issues we are now dealing with.
1. Generally, we can't have in-person court hearings. If a divorce is proceeding through the typical litigation approach, the parties should expect a slow process. Contested hearings are conducted on Zoom, but it may take a month or more to have a temporary hearing. Final hearings have an even longer lead time. Zoom hearings are relatively short since the courts are trying to deal with a large backlog. It's also rare for attorneys to meet in person with clients for the time being.
2. Quarantines and self-isolating have meant that couples are almost locked in together. That leads to more close time together which is a problem when they aren't used to spending so much time together. Where the partners are already having problems with each other, the situation can become unbearable. Close quarters over an extended time has led to some separations and divorces.
3. People are experiencing a great deal of uncertainty.
- Health issues are a constant concern.
- Job insecurity is a serious problem for many, with huge unemployment numbers.
- Relationships are under pressure from many sides.
- The overall economy is the worst it has been in decades.
- Politics, with the Presidential election, has gotten even more toxic.
- Plus, we don't know if and when schools will open and whether the kids will be safe.
There are stressors all around.
In this environment, if you are facing a divorce, you should consider using Collaborative Divorce to have a less stressful divorce process with a focus on the needs and best interests of both parties and the children. An experienced Collaborative lawyer can explain the process and help you get started.
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