As you go through a divorce, you might find it difficult to communicate with your spouse or, at the very least, to determine how to communicate with that person. Sometimes you can communicate directly with your spouse, while at other times you may wish to go through an attorney. Or, it might be best to say nothing at all.
When can I speak directly with my spouse?
In general, you should never engage in any communication that is not positive or relevant to the divorce process. Any negative messages or threats will reflect poorly on you and be counterproductive to the process. These interactions will almost certainly be used against you in court or during settlement negotiations. However, as long as communication is positive or is moving the process along, there is nothing that bars the two parties from communicating directly.
What types of communication should go through my attorney?
If there has been any history of abuse (physical or emotional) in your relationship, you should have all communication go through your divorce attorney, without exception. In fact, if there is already a no-contact or protective order in place, you do not have a choice in the matter.
Even in less-dire situations, some types of communication are best left to lawyers, including many of the routine processes in a divorce. Your attorney will understand how to manage this communication in a way that protects your best interests as you move toward a resolution in your divorce.
To learn more about communicating with your spouse while dissolving your legal marriage, work with a knowledgeable Minnesota divorce lawyer at Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A.
