I am soon to be divorced from my wife, who was verbally/emotionally abusive to me and the kids, had (and still has) an alcohol problem, and has been having an affair for six months. We have children under the age of 12. We are in Texas.
Ideally, I would never communicate or have anything to do with her ever again. But we have kids, and we will splitting custody/possession equally. So she will always be in my life, and on a fairly constant basis, unfortunately.
Because of that, I know I shouldn't be a jerk to her once the divorce is final. Co-parenting is easier when the parties get along. I know that.
My question, though, is are there any legal consequences if I am a jerk to her? For example, cutting remarks when I see/email her; snide comments in emails about her behavior and blowing up the family; etc.
To be clear, I would not do any of this if it had any effect on the kids. Per our settlement agreement, we can't disparage each other in front of the kids, and that would be wrong anyway. And if there were something where she needed my assistance for something kid-related, I woudn't refuse it. Nor would I do anything that violates our settlement agreement/divorce decree.
I'm talking more about when she and I will inevitably have to interact outside of the kids' presence. Are there any legal ramifications if, well, if I'm just an asshole to her? Yes, I know my anger and other wounds will subside with time and therapy. But if I finally tell her what I really think of her--which I've been holding back throughout divorce proceedings so that she doesn't try some trumped-up DV allegation--are there any legal downsides to it? Could she do anything if, say, I constantly needle her about her affair?
Again, I know I shouldn't do this. Just asking what would/could happen if I did. Would appreciate hearing from those with experience. Thanks.
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