There is a lot of discussion focused on being successful during a divorce proceeding. However, what makes a divorce successful? How you answer that question inevitably changes how that success may or may not be found. It is important to take a moment to evaluate some of the factors to consider.

Let’s start with the understanding that everyone is different, both parties to a divorce are different, and the factors involved in any divorce are also different. For all these reasons, there is no such thing as a cookie cutter, or a one-size-fits-all solution.

Each person has unique circumstances and wants different things, and therefore what qualifies as a successful divorce for you may not qualify for someone else. So finding success in divorce requires you to set goals and priorities. What do you hope to achieve? How do you expect to do it? What is the best possible outcome for you specifically?

Only by answering these questions honestly will you be able to determine the best course of action with a divorce case and, in turn, what your best-case scenario outcome would be. For one person, that could mean an amicable compromise achieved through mediation, reducing the cost, time, inconvenience, stress, and animosity of a lengthy court fight. For someone else, achieving sole custody of the children, for example, might be the most pressing concern, and proving the need for that outcome in court is the only way to make it workable, regardless of how long it takes or what it may entail. .

While it’s important to recognize such disparities in process and outcome, it’s also worth noting that, generally speaking, spite and anger won’t get you far during the divorce process or with anything else. You need to work hard to try to keep your level head, avoid doing things like dragging the kids into arguments, and resist the urge to scratch and claw at every little thing.

By focusing on your top priorities and most desired outcomes, another benefit is that you can hopefully set aside some of the rest and fight only for what’s most important. Also keep in mind that a successful divorce is not just about what happens in the courtroom. It is also about your life on the other side of the divorce.

Of course, it is always essential to work with an experienced family law attorney in your local area. And in terms of experiencing a successful divorce case, you also want to work with an attorney whose experience and capabilities are aligned with your own goals. Set your priorities, find someone whose skill set matches your end goals, and strive to find success in whatever form is defined for you.