When Divorce Drags On: How to Handle Delay Tactics
When Divorce Drags On: How to Handle Delay Tactics
By Leo Bezanis – Partner, Beermann LLP
Divorce isn’t meant to be quick, but it also shouldn’t take years without reason. Unfortunately, some spouses deliberately drag out the process to gain leverage.
Why Spouses Stall
Delay tactics are often used to:
Increase financial pressure on the other spouse
Push for more favorable terms in settlement
Maintain control over the situation
Avoid finality and change
What Courts Say About It
While courts recognize that divorce is complex, they also expect parties to act in good faith. Judges may:
Impose deadlines
Order one spouse to pay the other’s legal fees caused by delay
Consider stalling behavior when making rulings
How to Respond
Document Everything – missed deadlines, ignored emails, frivolous demands
File Motions When Needed – request the court to intervene if delays are unreasonable
Stay Strategic – don’t let frustration push you into bad decisions just to “get it over with”
Rely on Counsel – a skilled attorney can recognize patterns of delay and respond effectively
Final Thought
Delay tactics can be frustrating — but they don’t have to define your divorce. With the right strategy, you can move forward, protect your interests, and ensure that your case isn’t dragged down by bad faith.
Clear answers. No noise. Just the law — made simple.
