What Not to Do When Divorcing a Narcissist in Texas
Any divorce can be a mentally and emotionally draining process. However, when your spouse is a narcissist, your journey could be filled with manipulation and power struggles. When locked in a divorce process with them, you will want to avoid certain pitfalls. Here are a few things that you will not want to do when divorcing a narcissist.
Underestimate the Tactics of a Narcissist
You may think that a narcissist will not be able to sway the courts or a judge to their side. However, these individuals are very cunning. They will use all types of tactics to manipulate people or project a charming facade. If you are heading to a divorce with this person, be prepared for their attempts to control the narrative. They are not above using emotional blackmail or spreading false information to achieve their objectives.
No Documentation
Unfortunately, narcissists often thrive on ambiguity. If you do not have the proper documentation of their behavior and actions, it could mean a problem for your case. You need to keep a detailed record of all communications, financial transactions, and incidents of emotional or physical abuse. This documentation can be invaluable when building your case in court. Plus, it can help counter any false claims made by your spouse.
React to Their Provocations
A narcissist wants to get an emotional response from you. Sometimes, they could deliberately provoke you so that you can make a mistake with your case. You need to maintain composure during this time.
Keep in mind that narcissists often defy logic and act irrationally. You should never expect them to act in a fair manner. Instead, you want to focus on protecting your interests and working with a family law attorney who can navigate the legal system for you.
Fail to Set Boundaries
Narcissists are known for invading personal space. If you are going through a divorce, you need to set and enforce boundaries. With that, you want to limit any direct communication.
Sometimes, you may want to use a neutral third party or involve your legal team to manage interactions. By doing that, you can protect yourself from emotional manipulation.
Neglect Your Financial Planning
It is not uncommon for narcissists to hide or control financial assets. With a divorce, you may want to work with a financial or legal professional to investigate your financial situation. Make sure that you get copies of all financial records, including bank statements, tax returns, and property deeds.
Isolate Yourself
Many times, narcissists try to isolate their partners. This can happen during the divorce process. If you are involved in a divorce with this type of individual, you need to surround yourself with a strong support system. A network of reliable individuals can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and valuable perspectives.
Not Having Legal Counsel
In divorce cases with a narcissistic spouse, you need the assistance of a lawyer. A skilled family law attorney has experience working with a wide range of personalities. They understand how a narcissist can try to control the narrative of the proceedings. With their help, you can build a strong foundation for your case.
Now You Know What Not to Do When Divorcing a Narcissist
Divorcing a narcissist requires plenty of patience. The first step is securing legal help from a skilled, experienced legal team. At the Law Office of J. Kevin Clark, we understand how to navigate these complex issues and personality types. Call 817-348-6723 to schedule a consultation.