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Divorcing a Narcissist: What You Need to Know

Simplifying Equitable Distribution Through Mediation Divorce is never easy.

Even in the best of circumstances, it can feel as though your ex-spouse is "out to get you," or deliberately making your life difficult. Most of the time, this is just the emotions that come at the end of a marriage making you feel a certain way. However, there are cases when certain personality types can genuinely make a divorce a lot harder. For instance, divorcing a narcissist can mean that you need to dedicate even more effort into making sure that you don't let your feelings get the better of you.

As a divorce attorney in New York, Attorney Shapiro has dealt with cases involving many different people, including those with narcissistic tendencies. According to LiveAbout.com, narcissistic tendencies can include an overwhelming obsession with being right, a need for control, a lack of remorse, and a lack of interest in negotiation. Sometimes, narcissistic individuals will also deliberately hold onto negative feelings and resentment towards an ex-partner.

What to Expect from a Narcissist in a Divorce

If you're dealing with a narcissistic ex, then the best thing you can do is prepare yourself for a complicated process. Even without complicated personality types to consider, family law proceedings can take time. However, the right divorce attorney makes it a little easier to get through the process with as much speed and as little stress as possible. Unfortunately, if you're dealing with a narcissistic ex, then that individual may instruct their attorney to use up as much of your time as possible, so you don't feel as though you have any control over the situation. According to PsychologyToday.com, some narcissists will even lie in sworn documents because they're so convinced that their version of the truth is real.

During his many years as a child custody attorney and family lawyer, Mr. Shapiro has seen countless families go through painful experiences in divorce. The best thing that he can do in these circumstances is make sure that his clients know that they're getting the best possible representation. Attorney Shapiro reminds his clients not to attempt to address their frustrations with the other party. Unfortunately, when you are dealing with a narcissist, it can be very difficult to get your rational thoughts heard. Instead of bringing issues to your ex-spouse, speak to your divorce lawyer and allow them to act on your behalf. Attorneys like Mr. Shapiro have experience dealing with cases that involve complex personality types, and they know how to make sure that the truth comes out.

Protecting your Best Interests

The good news is that if you're working with the right divorce attorney, you'll have someone on your side that's devoted to serving your best interests. The bad news is that doesn't mean that the divorce procedure will be any easier. A divorce with a narcissist is always going to complicated, as people with these personality types aren't willing to allow the experience to go smoothly. Narcissists demand control over a situation, even if that means that they make the process worse for everyone involved. The important thing is that you don't give in to your ex's demands just because you want the process to move faster. The decisions that the courts make about your divorce will have a huge impact on your life. They may even determine whether you are given custody over your children.

Attorney Shapiro understands that his clients with narcissist ex-spouses are in a more complex position than most. However, he reminds his clients that with his help, it is still possible to come out on top. In fact, Attorney Shapiro can help his clients to understand exactly what they can expect during the divorce process so that they're less likely to feel confused and overwhelmed. Remember, your narcissist ex might try to prove that you're not capable of looking after your children, or that you're not eligible to receive spousal maintenance so that they can get their own way. Fortunately, attorneys like Mr. Shapiro are there to make sure that the courts here and see the truth.

To help your divorce lawyer present the best case for you against your narcissist ex, make sure that you provide them with plenty of information and documentation whenever you can. Collect evidence to support your claims and help your attorney to come up with a strategy that will keep you protected regardless of what your ex might try to say against you. Above all else, remember that it's important to keep your emotions at bay. Your ex is likely to try and throw a lot of hurtful comments at you to get their own way. However, it's important not to let the things your ex says in court get to you. Remain composed and try not to "get back" at your ex-spouse in any way.

Are You Divorcing A Narcissist?

Divorce is never easy, particularly when you're dealing with a narcissist. However, a divorce lawyer like attorney Shapiro can help. As well as getting the right support from a legal professional, it's also a good idea to speak to a therapist, so you can help to keep your emotions in check. Marriage.com recommends working with a therapist when you are trying to get a narcissist out of your life. This professional will provide you with a safe and objective place where you can vent your feelings away from the courtroom.

If you're currently in the midst of a divorce with a difficult person, or you're worried that you might be about to start divorce proceedings, reach out to Attorney Shapiro today. You can discuss your case in-depth with a free initial thirty-minute consultation. Call us today on (516) 333-6555.

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