You will be surprised to know that Florida has one of the lowest marriage rates in the country. Despite the state being labeled as a beautiful place to have a wedding ceremony in, the marriage rate stood at 6.8 per 1,000 residents as of 2021.
When it comes to divorces, the rate is currently at 3.1 per 1,000 people, which has significantly reduced over the last decade. Divorces are never easy, especially when one partner refuses to cooperate. Lack of cooperation can come in several ways like poor communication, hiding assets, or not showing up.
If you’re facing such an issue, reach out to a Florida divorce tax issues attorney to deal with the financial aspects of a messy separation. Keep reading to learn how to handle an uncooperative spouse.
Understand Why a Spouse is Not Cooperating
A spouse may refuse to cooperate because they are in denial about the separation and are acting out of anger and resentment. Sometimes, there could be some financial concerns, like fear of losing assets, paying alimony, or child support.
Another reason may be the desire to prolong the process as a form of getting twisted control. Either way, understanding what is causing their behavior can help you know how you can handle the situation.
Communicate Well and Set Boundaries
During a divorce, maintaining clear and respectful communication is key regardless of the situation. You can try and have an open but calm conversation to encourage them to raise their concerns. Send emails and texts to get record proof of your attempt to solve the issue. Avoid conflict at all costs, as this can make the whole situation way worse.
Get Legal Help
Unfortunately, in Florida, a spouse can’t stop a divorce by refusing to participate. Therefore, if one person ignores the proceedings, the other party has the legal option of filing for default divorce within 20 days after serving the papers. This means the court can grant divorce on your terms without needing their input.
If your spouse is stalling or refusing to give financial documents, a judge can issue an order that will require them to comply. It is best to contact a Florida divorce attorney to tell you the best way to proceed.
Consider Mediation
Mediation is a good way to negotiate the terms without a trial using a neutral party. This tactic is often quicker and the issues are resolved amicably. If mediation fails, try court intervention. A judge will enforce decisions on how the property should be divided and other issues like child custody. Failure to comply can lead to fines and penalties.
Focus on Yourself
Dealing with an uncooperative partner can take a toll on your emotional and psychological well-being. Try to get support from your family, friends, and loved ones. You can start practicing self-care as you take the necessary steps to move forward with your life.
Conclusion
If your spouse is uncooperative, don’t let their behavior pull you backwards. There are some things you can do and options to explore to navigate the process smoothly. Get the right legal assistance to ensure the process is finalized with as little stress as possible.
