Divorcing a bipolar spouse can be due to a continued strain on a marriage. Bipolar disorder, also termed manic-depressive condition, is a brain disorder causing abnormal shifts in activity levels, mood, energy, and routine tasks. Your spouse could have bipolar disorder if the following symptoms present themselves:
Sometimes a spouse with a mental health condition can’t handle the marriage. It is crucial to understand the process required when divorcing a bipolar spouse.
Below are vital considerations to follow when divorcing a bipolar partner.
When divorcing a bipolar spouse, first secure a Separation and Settlement Agreement. The document provides that you and your spouse consent to the separation as conscious parties. This document will also portray the settlement criterion once the divorce process ends. The law requires courts to enforce Agreements entered into:
The Agreement is prone to challenge on the grounds of unfitness. This is despite the bipolar spouse conceding, as ascertained by the counsel. The proof is also required to determine that the divorce with bipolar disorder was not under coercion.
Bipolar disorder and divorce require the determination of child custody terms. Most divorces involve custody disputes, especially when the partners’ voluntary mutual consensus is impossible. The law makes custody rulings based on evaluating the child’s needs.
A parent’s mental condition results in several factors when deciding on the child’s custody and visitation rights. The factors include:
If a divorce occurs without considering these factors, it can adversely affect custody decisions. The law may restrict a parent with bipolar disorder on time spent with the kid if the situation warrants concern. In this case, the court may mandate supervised visitation.
You will experience mixed emotions when divorcing a bipolar partner. These emotions may include:
In such a case, acknowledge these emotions and find suitable ways to mitigate them. You can enroll in a support group, visit a therapist, or record them in your journal. Spend time thinking about this decision and ensure your emotions don’t overwhelm you.
Try to support your bipolar spouse by controlling your anxiety levels. You can manage your decisions and responses in a manner that can produce a smooth divorce proceeding.
Once you feel your spouse puts you and your children in danger, take an immediate step to protect yourself. You can take a restraining order or depart from your family home. You can also meet with your attorney to advise you on the best decision.
Conducting a divorce with bipolar disorder can be challenging in North Carolina. An attorney is helpful in this scenario to smoothen the divorce proceedings. If you cannot communicate with your spouse, let the attorney intervene. A proxy will minimize the stress and enhance the smooth flow of the divorce process.
Some areas an attorney may provide guidance include:
When negotiating asset division, a divorce attorney‘s objective is to see clients obtain a fair and just legal process. The asset division should concur with the determination of property entitled to each spouse before and during a marriage. Your attorney should be fair while dividing the property equitably per your will.
An attorney takes time to develop a relationship with the clients by understanding the pain attached to the divorce. The lawyer and client establish objectives and work towards a profound divorce outcome. When deciding on an attorney, ensure they have experience handling complex legal proceedings.
When divorcing a bipolar spouse, you should also learn to cope with the situation for your good.
This condition can disrupt your daily functioning and requires several steps to ensure a smooth divorce. How can you manage if your spouse has bipolar disorder?
Due to the complicated divorce proceedings when divorcing a bipolar spouse, obtain help from an experienced divorce attorney. Prepare all documents and evidence to enable you to maneuver the divorce process.
The divorce attorneys at Remington & Dixon PLLC will offer competent counsel throughout the divorce process. We have an experienced team that will work closely with you to expose your spouse’s behaviors that led to the divorce. Contact us today, and let us protect you throughout the divorce process.
The divorce cost depends on the complexity of the case. An uncontested divorce will cost less than a contested divorce.
If you don’t want a divorce, look for a therapist to control your emotions. You’ll maneuver through the divorce and not allow negative feelings to lead you to the wrong decisions.
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