How A Passive-Aggressive Spouse Can Impact Divorce Proceedings
When getting a divorce, there are important legal matters which must be resolved before a final order can be issued. Unfortunately, your spouse has the potential to drag out the divorce process, costing you time and money. Learn how a passive-aggressive spouse can impact your divorce proceedings.
Signs Your Spouse Is Passive-Aggressive
There are a variety of different types of personality traits that can wreak havoc in your marriage and increase the odds of getting a divorce, such as passive-aggressiveness. It is a pattern of behavior in which the person fails to directly acknowledge or vocalize their true feelings. As a result, any anger and resentment they may be feeling are likely to come out in more indirect ways. According to Psychology Today, common signs that a spouse may be given to passive-aggressive behavior include:
They are stubborn. Passive-aggressive people are known for holding onto grudges and get into frequent disagreements due to a failure to compromise or consider other points of view.
They are given to sulking and sullenness. When passive-aggressive people do not get their way, they are likely to mope around, acting sullen and depressed while portraying themselves as victims.
They employ the “silent treatment.” Trying to communicate or resolve issues with passive-aggressive people can prove futile. Unless you are willing to give in and do things their way, you are likely to receive the silent treatment.
They will insult you, your ideas, and any plans you make. Put-downs and insults are common ways for passive-aggressive people to express their displeasure.
They procrastinate and fail to complete tasks. Passive-aggressive people are known for their lack of cooperation and often fail to complete required jobs or tasks.
Problems When Divorcing A Passive-Aggressive Spouse
Regardless of the situation surrounding your marriage, there are important issues that must be resolved before your divorce can be finalized. Under the South Carolina Code, this includes the division of marital property and assets, as well as arrangements regarding any children you have. Ways a passive-aggressive spouse may attempt to derail these proceedings include:
Refusing to respond to your divorce petition. This is a common move among passive-aggressive spouses, but it is likely to backfire on them. Not responding could result in the judge issuing a default judgment in your favor.
Refusing to appear in court. This is another common move and can have serious repercussions on your spouse. Failing to appear could result in fines and an arrest warrant being issued.
Refusing to participate in divorce-related negotiations or mediation sessions. This generally reflects unfavorably on them and could make the judge in your case more likely to rule in your favor.
Refusing to comply with any final orders issued. Once a final order is issued, our Aiken divorce attorney can take legal actions to force your spouse to comply.
Contact Our Aiken Divorce Attorney Today
We hope you better understand how a passive-aggressive spouse can impact your divorce proceedings. At the Surasky Law Firm, we provide the professional legal representation needed when dealing with a passive-aggressive spouse. To discuss your options, contact our Aiken divorce attorney and request a consultation today.
