Divorce is often traumatic for all the family members involved. The process can be even more challenging and rancorous with young children. However, many couples find ways to settle their divorce without going through a laborious legal process. The circumstances of your divorce influence what is best for you. You should take the time to work through what your particular needs are. With that in mind, here are some alternative strategies to consider.

Marital Dissolution

Marital dissolution is like no-fault divorce. Neither party blames the other. Rather, both spouses agree to share responsibility for ending the marriage. This can settle things as smoothly as possible without conflict or costly court hearings. Making this work obvious requires an amicable divorce, which is obviously not possible for everyone.

Family Divorce Court

Ending the marriage in a family law court is usually more agreeable than a long stream of disagreements and proceedings. Usually, the court assigns a mediator to work with both spouses jointly or individually to work through the issues that have led to the ending of their union. This usually involves child custody, visitation, and child support. Property division is another key issue. Sharing pets and certain belongings can sometimes be arranged. The mediator ensures a fair and objective approach to the couple’s concerns and goals, keeping the children’s needs in view.

Prioritizing the Children

Whether to let one spouse keep the family home or selling it and sharing any profit or loss is a critical question, as it will impact young children. Parents can agree on where the kids will go to school, their religious affiliation, and social activities when they put the kids’ needs ahead of their own. Most parents want what is best for their children. Therefore, this approach enables them to work toward this end in a civil way. Pay attention to how your kids are feeling and accommodate whatever emotions they might experience.

Amicable Division of Property

Property division can get dicey when both spouses want the same furnishings, equipment, or valuables. However, making a list, with spouses taking turns to choose an item and then let the other person choose one, can lead to a more or less fair distribution of assets. The goal is to focus on maintaining an equitable approach to ending the marriage and sharing responsibilities and rights rather than argue. Consider the possessions that are most important to you and your former spouse and approach those subject with sensitivity.

Getting a divorce does not have to be contentious. It can be a civilized proceeding that maintains the dignity of both spouses while preserving the well-being of the children. With sustained cooperation and a positive attitude, you can negotiate a divorce without going through the expensive and time-intensive process of court documents and hearings. Overall, the divorce, while sad in some ways, should leave everyone feeling it turned out as well as possible. Depending on your situation, it can be very difficult to see a divorce end well. Hopefully, these suggestions will put you on the right track.