What to do if you are anticipating a messy divorce?
- Royce Nunley
- Sep 29, 2019
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
What to Know When You’re Expecting the Worst
Divorce isn’t just the end of a marriage—it can be the beginning of a legal battle over your children, property, finances, and emotional well-being. While some divorces remain civil and cooperative, many turn bitter fast. If you sense your divorce may become contentious, the best thing you can do is prepare for the worst—starting now.
At The Nunley Law Group, we’ve represented clients through some of the most emotionally charged family law disputes in Michigan. Here’s what you need to know if you’re anticipating a difficult divorce—and how to protect yourself and your rights before things spiral out of control.
What You Do—and Say—Can Be Used Against You
One of the biggest mistakes we see in contentious divorce cases is people letting their emotions take over. Every angry text message, sarcastic Facebook post, or heated voicemail can become evidence in your divorce proceedings.
In nearly every high-conflict divorce we’ve handled, one party has presented:
Printed text messages
Screenshots of social media posts
Audio or video recordings of the other party’s behavior
If you wouldn’t want a judge to read or hear it, don’t say it, don’t text it, and don’t post it.
Custody Battles: Behavior Matters
When children are involved, your behavior becomes even more critical. Custody decisions are often influenced by how each parent treats the other during the divorce process.
Some key points to keep in mind:
Domestic violence is not just a criminal matter—it can significantly impact custody. If your spouse ever becomes physical, call the police immediately. This creates a documented record that can support your case.
Avoid sending hostile messages or engaging in shouting matches. Judges often weigh a parent's ability to co-parent and maintain a stable environment for the children.
Act as if you're being watched. Assume that everything you say or do could be recorded—because in many cases, it is.
Document Everything
While it’s crucial to monitor your own behavior, you should also gather evidence of any negative behavior by your spouse, especially if it involves the children. Keep copies of:
Hostile or inappropriate texts and emails
Negative or threatening social media posts
Any communication that shows instability, dishonesty, or abuse
This documentation can play a pivotal role in disputes over custody, parenting time, and even division of assets.
The Benefits of Staying Civil
Though it’s easier said than done, staying civil during a divorce can spare you a tremendous amount of time, stress, and money. Divorce trials are not only expensive, they are emotionally draining—and in many cases, avoidable.
If you and your spouse can find a way to set aside personal conflict and focus on the logistics of separation and the well-being of your children, the outcome will likely be better for everyone involved.
Facing a Difficult Divorce? Get Legal Help Now.
If you're bracing for a high-conflict divorce in Metro Detroit, the best step you can take is to speak with an experienced Michigan divorce attorney as early as possible. At The Nunley Law Group, we offer honest evaluations and strategic planning for complex divorce cases—including those involving custody disputes, domestic violence, and contentious asset division.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation. We'll help you understand your rights, protect your interests, and prepare for whatever comes next.
Other Helpful Family Law Resources:
| About the Author
Email. Royce@nunleylawgroup.com
Tel. 586-778-4555
Royce Nunley is the founder and lead attorney at The Nunley Law Group, where he represents clients in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Defense, Social Security Disability, and Personal Injury. Known for his client-focused approach and legal insight, Royce is deeply committed to delivering personalized legal solutions tailored to each individual's needs.
Royce earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish, Cum Laude, from Wayne State University, and continued his education at Wayne State University Law School, where he received his Juris Doctorate, also Cum Laude. His academic excellence laid a strong foundation for a career marked by both compassion and tenacity in the courtroom.
Royce has been recognized for his outstanding work in Family Law, earning the distinction of Super Lawyers "Rising Star" for six consecutive years—2019 through 2024—an honor reserved for only the top 2.5% of attorneys in the state.
With a reputation for taking the time to truly understand his clients and their legal challenges, Royce ensures that every person who walks through his door receives the respect, transparency, and tireless advocacy they deserve.
コメント