Can uncontested divorce help your child cope?

Ohio parents like you put your child before and above anything else. You want them to thrive and survive through the hardships of divorce. This is often hard to accomplish, as the nature of a divorce itself fundamentally upsets your child’s life.

But there are ways that you can limit the damage divorce does. There are ways you can help your child get through this difficult period in their life. A good place to start is to opt for uncontested divorce if at all possible.

What is uncontested divorce?

Cornell Law School defines uncontested divorce as a divorce in which both parties agree on the terms of divorce. This includes property division, child custody, and more. You also file the paperwork jointly. As you can tell from this definition alone, uncontested divorces are much rarer than contested ones. After all, you cannot go through with an uncontested divorce if you have even one disagreement that you cannot work through.

But if it is possible, it is an option you may want to consider. Why? Because studies show that uncontested divorce periods often end with less trauma for children of divorce. Contested divorces often come with lengthy court battles, soured tempers and arguments.

Cooperating with a co-parent

By working together through the divorce even when things get tough, you are also imparting an important life lesson to your child. You show them that it is possible to set aside differences and work together to a common goal.

As long as you assure your child throughout the divorce that you will both be there for them and love them, you can reduce the impact of divorce. But being able to go through the divorce with less heated conflict can also make a big impact.