Tips When Divorcing a Narcissist
Going through a divorce is never easy. Even if you and your spouse are on good terms, the process is a very emotional and difficult one. When divorcing a narcissist, though, it can make your case even more complex. Narcissists may try to manipulate every situation in the divorce, hide assets they believe they have a right to, and otherwise unnecessarily complicate the process. Below, our Tampa complex divorce attorney explains tips to follow when divorcing a narcissist.
Gather as Much Documentation as Possible
It is important to collect and organize any financial and personal records that will impact your case. These may include:
- Bank statements
- Tax returns
- Investment account information
- Credit card bills
- Property deeds
- Pay stubs
- Insurance policies
- Car titles
It is also recommended that you take photos or video footage of household items and valuable property. This can ensure that your spouse does not try to hide assets to manipulate the situation.
Secure Your Finances
It is not uncommon for narcissists to act vindictively, particularly when they are going through a divorce. To protect yourself from unscrupulous actions, consider opening a separate bank account, setting aside some money, and applying for separate credit cards. This will prevent your spouse from withdrawing all of the funds from a joint account. A separate bank account will also ensure you can put aside money for the divorce. Also, consider freezing any joint credit accounts so that your spouse does not incur any new debt in your name. Regularly check your credit score to identify any suspicious activity early.
The Law on Divorce in Florida
The law on divorce in Florida can make divorcing a narcissist easier. However, in other areas, it can make it more challenging.
Florida is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that you do not have to prove your spouse is to blame for the marriage ending. Perhaps more importantly, when divorcing a narcissist, your spouse does not have to agree to the divorce. Still, they can make things more challenging and cause unnecessary delays.
The courts in Florida also typically order spouses to enter mediation before they litigate a divorce. Mediation requires compromise, cooperation, and open communication, which can make these proceedings particularly difficult, as narcissists typically do not possess these skills. Due to this, your case may take longer than necessary and may end up in court, which will also result in a longer resolution time.
Hidden Assets
Again, it is not uncommon for narcissistic spouses to hide assets. They may simply believe they are entitled to them, or they may hide assets out of spite. When this type of conflict is involved in a divorce, it is often necessary to hire a forensic accountant who can locate missing assets.
Our Complex Divorce Attorney in Tampa Can Help You Overcome the Above Issues
Divorce is never easy, but there are unique challenges that arise when ending a marriage with a narcissist. At Florida Law Advisers, P.A., our Tampa complex divorce attorney can help you overcome these challenges as they arise to help ensure you receive the fair settlement you deserve. Call us now at 1 (800) 990-7763 or chat with us online to request a consultation and to learn more about how we can help with your case.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html
