How to Initiate a Divorce With a Narcissist in Texas

 Posted on December 15,2023 in Uncategorized

When you make the decision to divorce, the process is never easy. There are always issues or concerns that can come up. If your ex-spouse is narcissistic, then that can complicate the matter. Initiating a divorce with a narcissist in the Lone Star State requires you to balance legal protocols and psychological resilience. Here are a few tips to help you start the divorce process with a narcissist in Texas.

What You Can Expect During This Time

Unfortunately, a narcissist can cause plenty of problems when it comes to your divorce. These individuals lack empathy and have an inflated self-importance. Along with that, they have an insatiable need for admiration. All those personality qualities can turn a divorce into a battlefield. They will use control tactics, manipulation, and emotional or psychological abuse to thwart your efforts to seek an amicable separation.

In Texas, you do not have to assign blame for the dissolution of the marriage. This no-fault foundation can be advantageous when confronting a narcissistic spouse. Once you need to divorce a narcissist, you need to have a plan in place.

Before initiating the process, you will want to collect certain financial documents, such as:

• Bank statements
• Tax returns
• Investment documents
• Asset and debt inventories

Since narcissists can cause damage to your mental health, you may want to establish a support system of friends, family, and professionals to help you handle the emotional and legal aspects of divorce.

Along with that, you need to collaborate with a seasoned family law attorney who understands the unique challenges of divorcing a narcissist in Texas.

Always Keep Documentation of the Process

When starting this process, you will also want to collect other types of documentation. Keep records of all communications, such as emails, text messages, or other evidence of concerning behavior. You may need these records when determining child custody and visitation rights. Your documented narrative can help to protect the well-being of any children involved.

Child custody battles take center stage in the drama of divorcing a narcissist. Texas courts will prioritize the best interests of the child. You need to illustrate why your proposed custody arrangement will protect their well-being.

You May Need to Consider Protective Orders

Since a narcissist is more concerned about “winning” a case, they will do anything to secure a victory for their side. In some cases, that may mean harassment. You may want to seek a protective order in these situations. This action can stop the abusive spouse from contacting you or your children. Along with that, they will need to maintain a specific distance from your residence or workplace.

Mediation Could Be an Option

You may want to explore alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation. This process uses a neutral third party to agree on property division, child custody, and spousal support. However, getting the narcissist to agree to this process can also be another challenge. They may feel they need to go to court to prove their case. In that situation, you will need an experienced attorney on your side.

Get Started on Your Divorce With a Narcissist

Beginning the divorce process with a narcissist is never easy. These individuals will try to manipulate the process to their advantage. However, with the help of an experienced family law attorney, you can be prepared for this process. If you are ready to start a divorce, make sure to contact the Law Office of J. Kevin Clark P.C. Schedule your consultation by calling 817-348-6723.