July 11, 2023
Going through a divorce or a lengthy contentious custody battle can be demoralizing. It can also be overwhelming for some if they do not have ongoing support throughout the process. During those tough times, many people lean on their friends and family for advice and validation that they are doing the right thing. If your friend or family member is going through a family law case, then you may be looking for ways to help them. Here’s more on that topic, along with some helpful tips that can allow you to give them the assistance and support that they may need during this difficult time.
Be Present And Listen. Sometimes simply being there and letting your loved one vent about their situation is enough. You do not always need to give advice or critique what has happened. Just knowing that someone will be there to hear them may be all that they are searching for. A good friend or family member should always be willing to lend an ear, even if it means holding your tongue.
Offer Support. Your loved one may be going through a divorce or a separation where they are uncertain about what they should do. While they may not be asking for suggestions, they may be looking for supportive feedback. This does not mean that you should agree with their every move, instead you can simply let them know that you will be there to support them no matter what they decide to do. Your loved one may not know if they are doing the right thing, but if you offer unwavering support, they will know that no matter what happens, someone will be there for them.
Do Not Talk Bad About Their Ex. It may be tempting to join in on bad mouthing their ex, especially if your loved one is continually doing so, but it is not recommended. You are most useful if you are staying calm and neutral while providing a voice of reason. It is not unheard of for couples that are fighting in court to reconcile at some point in the future. If this happens, and you have been trashing their ex for months, then that may drive a wedge between you and your friend/family member.
Offer to Help In Any Way You Can. Family law cases can create significant upheaval in a person’s life. Whether it be moving out of the home they shared with an ex, or finding a whole new social group, if you can help in any way, then you should at least offer. People going through a divorce or separation may also now need help with the things their partner used to do. This may be fixing things around the house, sorting the laundry, paying bills, or dealing with car issues. Knowing that they can count on you to help with those things can alleviate a lot of the stress surrounding their family law matter.
Be Kind. A card or note letting your friend or family member know that you are in their thoughts can do more than you know. A phone call or a text message wishing them well in their upcoming court hearing can also give them the boost that they may need. Thoughtful reminders that you are thinking of them requires very little effort but can make a huge impact.
Maintain Their Privacy. Your loved ones go to you in a time of crisis because they trust you. To be worthy of trust, you must maintain it. What this means is that anything that your friend or family member discusses with you about their family law case should remain between you and them. Gossiping and sharing details can come back to bite you. But more importantly, the betrayal and disappointment that your loved one may experience when they find out that you have been spilling the details can be too much for them to bear.
No matter what your situation is, your trusted family and friends should be there for you, lending you support. Their guidance can be invaluable. In addition, to get more clarity on your family law matter, you may want to talk through your situation with a family law attorney. With over 17 years experience, Inner Vision Legal is rated as one of the best divorce law firms in Oklahoma. The firm aims to get ideal results for its clients at all times. Touch base with the knowledgeable attorneys at Inner Vision Legal by calling (405) 724-2525 or by contacting us online.
5909 Northwest Expy, Ste. 375
Oklahoma City, OK 73132