How to Drag Out a Divorce?

Divorces are seldom friendly transactions, even uncontested ones. Stalling a divorce can happen when one party does not want the divorce, is bitter about it, or when they are trying to buy time to manipulate finances. Dragging out a divorce is not only unfair and manipulative, it usually ends up being emotionally and financially draining for everyone involved. 

If you are involved in a divorce in New York with an uncooperative spouse, you should get the guidance of an experienced New York divorce attorney to discuss your options. 

Why Would One Spouse Choose to Drag Out a Divorce?

Spouses often use unfair tactics in divorces. Sometimes it is a matter of revenge, or if one spouse doesn’t want the divorce and is hoping that the other spouse will change their mind. One spouse may not like the terms that are being offered for child custody or support. In some cases, the reasons are more nefarious such as one spouse attempting to hide assets. 

The reasons for stalling a divorce usually fall into one of three categories:

• One spouse doesn’t expect or want the divorce. This spouse may feel if they keep holding on, their spouse will possibly change their mind, and the marriage can be saved. Unfortunately, these spouses have a difficult time letting go and moving on from a marriage that isn’t working. 
• One spouse feels angry and resentful. This spouse may feel completely out of control and act out of anger and bitterness toward the other. They want to see that spouse suffer through months or even years of a long, drawn-out divorce to feel some sense of control or even revenge. 
• One spouse is motivated by financial reasons for delaying the divorce, running up attorney’s fees, leaving the other without financial resources, delaying support payments, or hiding assets. 

Signs that Your Spouse May Be Dragging Your Divorce Out

Some spouses use tactics for stalling a divorce that comes down to pure manipulation. Some signs that you may be dealing with manipulative behavior are when

• Your spouse keeps rescheduling meetings with your mediator or between your lawyers. 
• Your spouse avoids service of the court documents or fails to sign the documents.
• Your spouse makes false accusations against you.
• Your spouse frequently changes lawyers.
• Your spouse refuses to answer or return your calls, texts, or emails.
• Your spouse keeps making unreasonable demands.
• Your spouse keeps filing useless motions in court.

While divorce often just takes time, feeling stalled by your soon-to-be ex-spouse is never a good way to begin your new chapter. While there is no deadline for a divorce, you don’t have to sit around and wait for an uncooperative spouse. You may have legal options available to you.

Hiring a Skilled New York Divorce Attorney

If you find that you are trying to navigate a divorce with an uncooperative spouse, your New York divorce attorney can request a hearing to address the issues you are experiencing. If your spouse then disobeys court orders, he or she may find themselves in serious trouble and may even face jail time. 
Don’t waste any more time than necessary with a spouse who is trying to drag out your divorce. Ryan Besinque and the experienced team of New York divorce lawyers at the Law Office of Ryan Besinque may provide options to force your spouse to comply with the process. We have the experience it takes to help guide you toward the resolution you need to move forward. Call us at (929) 251-4477 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.