Gelman Family Law Lawyers

Over 200+ 5-Star Google Reviews

Book Consult

Dealing with a Dramatic Ex

Published: November 6, 2013

Book Consult1-844-736-0200

Table of Contents

Dealing with a Dramatic Ex

When your soon-to-be ex thrives on drama, every day can seem like an endless stream of torment. Whether you’re getting angry phone calls, harassing text messages or personal messages from your ex through your children, it’s never easy to deal with someone who specializes in creating drama everywhere he or she goes.

Dramatic people often find it easier to see the negative (and to highlight it) than the positive; they generally dominate conversations and turn everything into a raging battle with themselves as the centerpiece. Is there anything you can do, or will you just need to let your ex’s theatrics run their course?

When Your Ex Crosses the Line with Daily Drama

No matter which one of you decided to talk to a Barrie divorce lawyer first, or whose “fault” your divorce is, nobody deserves to deal with a barrage of drama. Make sure you let your lawyer know if your ex is harassing you, threatening you or becomes physically violent toward you or your children at any time.

If your ex is using your children to communicate with you, your lawyer needs to know right away. That’s not emotionally healthy for anyone involved, and it can cause kids unnecessary psychological trauma.

Dealing with a Dramatic Ex

Your Barrie divorce lawyer will probably advise you to keep the peace as best you can. If that means ignoring text messages, phone calls or emails (as long as you don’t need to communicate about the children), then it’s probably a good idea to do so.

When your ex tries to engage you with face-to-face drama, try not to participate. Of course, that’s easier said than done. However, it’s important that you avoid giving your ex any ammunition that can be used against you. Keeping the peace serves another purpose, too: when you act nicely toward your spouse, regardless of what he or she does, it’s easier to negotiate things such as how you’ll agree to divide your personal property and child custody agreements.

 

Written by Lisa Gelman

Senior Lawyer

Senior Lawyer Lisa Gelman has over 25 years of family law experience and founded Gelman & Associates to provide strategic legal counsel in family law matters concerning divorce, parenting, separation, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions - divorce & separation

If you are litigating your matter, social media posts made by your spouse or partner may be relevant, especially if they contradict what your spouse is claiming in his or her pleadings.

For example, if a spouse is claiming financial hardship, a Facebook post that shows that spouse going on an expensive trip or posing with an expensive car can undermine such claim  and, potentially affect that party’s credibility in court if presented as evidence on a motion or at trial.

Further to photograph-based posts, statements that are made on social media by one party can be relevant if said posts (i) are related to the litigation, to issues of parenting  and/or (b) they contradict statements that were made by the party in his or her pleadings. For example, if a party who is attempting to establish that he or she is an appropriate custodial parent, then recent social media posts about extensive partying and drug use made by that party may be relevant in court, as they may speak to that party’s fitness when it comes to appropriate supervision of a child in his or her care.

The Ontario Attorney General’s website estimates that divorce proceedings can take approximately four to six months to complete, provided that all documents have been appropriately accomplished and submitted on time.

No. The law does not favour mothers over fathers in divorce proceedings. The judge will base his decision on the evidence laid out by both parties.

The main distinction between divorce and separation is that divorce ends your marriage formally. You and your partner are no longer married.
If you’re separated, you’re still legally married to each other even if you receive a formal separation, and you must continue to record that you’re married on documents.

No. You are not required to get a lawyer for a divorce. However, it is best if you retain one to ensure that you fully understand all your rights and obligations.

A joint divorce application occurs when you and your spouse both agree to a divorce and on all other family law matters such as parenting, spousal support, or division of property.

Yes, it is different. Family law problems are addressed mainly by provincial laws in Ontario. Divorce law, on the other hand, is controlled by federal legislation in the form of the Divorce Act, which applies uniformly across the country.

Divorce can be a difficult decision to make, especially if you’re unsure if your partner will sign the petition. However, a divorce does not require your partner’s consent. Although it may be a long process if your partner doesn’t comply, they will not be able to stop you indefinitely.

Locations We Serve

Multiple offices to help serve you better

With numerous offices across Ontario, we make it easier for our clients to have access to our lawyers. Please note that offices marked with an (**) are satellite offices and require a consultation booked in advance. We are not able to accommodate walk-in appointments at these locations. Call us to book a free consultation today.

Still have family law questions?

Speak to a lawyer

If you need legal advice regarding divorce & separation matters in Ontario, contact our Toronto family law lawyers for a free consultation. Some conditions may apply.

Book Your Consult